Cars Nissan Almera generation N16 with a 1.5 liter engine (QG15DE series) have earned a reputation as reliable machines, but their service life directly depends on the condition of the gas distribution mechanism. Unlike many competitors of that time, there is not a belt installed here, but a metal chain, which theoretically lasts the entire life of the motor. However, in practice, with aggressive driving or untimely oil changes, the chain life is reduced to 100-150 thousand kilometers.
If you hear a metallic ringing or clattering sound in the area of the engine cover when starting, this is a sure sign of a stretched mechanism. Ignoring this problem can lead to the chain jumping one or more teeth, which leads to a collision between the valves and the pistons. Engine repair in this case, it will cost several times more than a planned replacement of the timing chain. It is important to understand that along with the chain it is necessary to change both the tensioner and the dampers, since the old parts will not provide the required tension.
Signs of wear and system diagnostics
You can determine that a mechanism has become unusable not only by sound. Sometimes owners encounter floating idle speed or valve timing errors on a diagnostic scanner. Engine vibration that is transmitted to the body may also indicate that the phases have shifted. You should not wait until the engine starts knocking; it is better to conduct a visual inspection.
To check for wear, remove the top engine cover and inspect the tensioner. If the tensioner rod is extended more than half of its working stroke, then the chain is already stretched. Also pay attention to the chain play when cranking the crankshaft by hand. If the chain sags too much, this indicates that chain resource exhausted.
Here are the main symptoms that require immediate intervention:
- 🔊 A characteristic metallic ringing or crackling sound from under the plastic engine cover during a cold start.
- ⚙️ Engine error P0340 or P0341, indicating that the camshafts are out of sync.
- 📉 Increased fuel consumption and loss of power due to incorrect valve timing.
Selection of necessary spare parts and tools
Before starting work, you need to prepare a high-quality set of spare parts. Cheap analogues often do not last even 20 thousand kilometers, so it is better to immediately focus on the original or proven brands like Gates or Dayco. The complete kit should include the chain itself, tensioner, stabilizers (upper and lower), as well as timing cover gaskets. Do not forget about the sealant to fit the lid, as an old gasket may not provide a tight seal.
The tooling for this work requires care. You will need standard sockets, wrenches, and a torque wrench to tighten the cover bolts and pulleys. Pay special attention to the crankshaft and camshaft locks. Without these devices, it is almost impossible to set the correct phases, and there is a high risk of making a mistake by one tooth, which will lead to dire consequences.
The list of required tools is as follows:
- 🛠️ Set of sockets and ratchets (including extensions).
- 🔧 Torque wrench (for precise tightening of the cover bolts to 10-12 Nm).
- 🔒 Special crankshaft and shaft clamp (or homemade template).
For ease of work, prepare a container in advance for draining the antifreeze, since the radiator will have to be dismantled or moved aside to gain access to the coolant pump pulley. It is necessary to remove the front wheel and fender liner, otherwise it will simply be impossible to get close to the lower bolts of the timing cover.
- Less than 100 thousand km
- 100-150 thousand km
- 150-200 thousand km
- More than 200 thousand km
Stages of dismantling and removing the timing cover
Start by turning off the power to the car and removing the negative terminal of the battery. Next, you need to dismantle the plastic air filter housing and pipes to make room for work. Remove the alternator belt and crankshaft pulley. To do this, you will need to lock the pulley through the hole in the oil pan or use a special clamp. Be careful not to damage the tray when working.
The next step is to dismantle the radiator or disconnect it from the pipes in order to move it to the side. This is necessary to gain access to the upper timing cover bolts. After this, unscrew the cover bolts. It is important to follow the sequence here so as not to damage the plastic cover. If the bolts are stuck, use a penetrating lubricant and give it time to work.
After removing the cover you will see the mechanism itself. Before unscrewing the tensioner, it is necessary to fix the crankshaft in the upper position of the first cylinder. Make sure that the marks on the camshaft sprockets match the marks on the cylinder block. Correct placement of labels - the key to a successful assembly.
Do not allow coolant to come into contact with electrical connectors and sensors. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to entrust the dismantling to professionals, as fragile plastic parts break easily.
☑️ Preparing to remove the cover
Replacing the tensioner and dampers
The chain tensioner is a part that often fails before the chain itself. Its operation is based on hydraulic oil pressure. If the mechanism inside is worn out or the spring has lost its elasticity, the chain will sag. When replacing, be sure to install a new tensioner. The old mechanism may not hold the chain taut, which will lead to repeated stretching.
Chain guides (guides) are made of plastic or composite materials. Over time, they wear out, and the chain begins to hit them, making an unpleasant sound. Old guides often have deep grooves that can cause the chain to jam. Replace all three guides: top, bottom and side. This is inexpensive, but critical to the longevity of the repair.
Installing a new tensioner requires care. Before installation, it is necessary to completely recess the rod and secure it with a locking cap or pin. This is done so that when the engine is first started, the chain does not jump due to lack of oil pressure in the system. Once installed, remove the stopper when the engine starts running and builds up oil pressure.
Do not forget to clean the seats of old gaskets and sealant. Any dirt can cause oil or antifreeze leaks in the future. Use solvent to degrease the surface before applying new sealant. Apply it in a thin layer so that excess does not get inside the mechanism.
Why is it important to change the tensioner along with the chain?
An old tensioner may have wear on internal parts that is not visually visible. If you install a new chain on an old tensioner, it may not provide the required tension, and the chain will quickly stretch or jump again.
Installation of new parts and phase alignment
The most crucial moment is installing a new chain. Carefully place it on the sprockets, observing the color markings. The chain usually has colored links (gold or black) that should match the marks on the camshaft and crankshaft sprockets. If the marks do not match, the engine will not start or will not work correctly. Mark Alignment Accuracy plays a decisive role here.
After putting on the chain, install new guides. The tensioner must be locked until the engine is started. Check that the chain sits tightly on all sprockets and is not distorted. Rotate the crankshaft by hand two full turns and make sure that all marks line up again. This ensures that the phases are set correctly.
Installation of the timing cover requires the application of high-quality sealant. Apply it to the joint between the cover and the cylinder block, avoiding getting it inside. Tighten the bolts crosswise with a certain amount of force to avoid distortion of the cover. Excess sealant squeezed out during tightening must be removed immediately.
Install the crankshaft pulley and alternator belt. Reconnect all sensors and connectors that were removed. Refill with antifreeze and check the system for leaks. After starting the engine, listen carefully to the operation of the engine. The ringing should disappear and engine operation should become smooth.
Here are the key points during assembly:
- 🎯 Precise alignment of color chain marks with sprockets.
- 🔒 Mandatory fixation of the tensioner rod before installation.
- 🔄 Checking the coincidence of the marks after two revolutions of the crankshaft.
| Detail | Original number (example) | Analogue (brand) | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timing chain | 13028-AX00A | Gates K015553XS | The original is often more expensive, the analogue is better quality |
| Tensioner | 13070-AX00A | Dayco T815001 | Definitely new |
| Upper damper | 13044-AX00A | Corodo | Plastic, easy to break |
| Lower damper | 13043-AX00A | Corodo | Operation critical |
| Cover gasket | 13048-AX00A | Victor Reinz | Or sealant |
Before applying sealant, make sure that the surface of the cylinder block is completely dry and free of grease. Even a drop of oil can cause a leak after a week of use.
Common repair mistakes and how to avoid them
One of the most common mistakes is trying to save on gaskets and sealant. Cheap materials quickly lose their elasticity, which leads to the appearance of oil smudges. Oil mist from under the timing cover can reach the alternator and belt, causing premature wear. Use trusted sealant brands such as Loctite or ThreeBond.
Another mistake is improper tightening of the cover bolts. Too much force can cause the plastic cover to crack, while too little force can cause vibration and knocking. Always use a torque wrench and follow factory specifications. Do not tighten the bolts by eye, especially if the cover has already been in use.
Sometimes craftsmen forget about replacing the crankshaft and camshaft seals when dismantling the cover. If the seals are already old, they may leak after installing a new chain. It is better to replace them immediately while access is open. This will save time and money in the future, since re-disassembling the timing belt is a labor-intensive process.
⚠️ Attention: Never turn the crankshaft by the camshaft pulley! This can lead to phase displacement and damage to the mechanism. You can only turn it by the crankshaft bolt.
It is also important not to forget to check the condition of the water pump seal. If it leaks, antifreeze will get into the oil or onto the alternator belt. Inspect the pump for play and signs of leaks. If necessary, replace it along with the gasket.
Replacing a timing chain is a complex job where you cannot skimp on consumables. Having saved 2,000 rubles on sealant, you risk spending 15,000 on eliminating the consequences of a leak.
FAQ: Answers to popular questions
How long does it take to replace a timing chain on an Almera N16?
On average, a professional master's work takes 3-4 hours. If you are doing this for the first time and you do not have all the special tools, the process may take 6-8 hours.
Is it possible to do without removing the radiator?
Theoretically, it is possible if you carefully disconnect the upper pipes and move the radiator to the side without removing it completely. However, this is risky and inconvenient; it is better to remove it completely for free access to the cover bolts.
What if the labels don't match after scrolling?
This means you were off by one or more teeth when installing. You will have to remove the cover and repeat the chain installation procedure, making sure the colored links line up exactly with the marks on the sprockets.
Do I need to change the alternator belt when replacing the chain?
It is recommended to check its condition. If the belt is old, has cracks or signs of wear, it is better to replace it immediately, since access to it with the timing cover and crankshaft pulley removed is very convenient.
⚠️ Attention: After replacing the chain, be sure to check the engine operation in all modes. If there is vibration or noise, do not continue operation until the cause is eliminated.
Regular maintenance and timely replacement of consumables is the key to the long life of your Nissan Almera. Do not ignore extraneous sounds and monitor the condition of the engine oil. Correctly performed replacement of the timing chain will return the car to its former dynamics and quiet operation, allowing you to drive hundreds of thousands of kilometers without serious problems.