Timing Chain Replacement

[JohninTexas]

Hey Guys
Frequent reader but wanted more input here.
I have a 2011 Ram 1500 Hemi with 194,000 miles. I have only owned this truck a short time and not sure what maintenance has been done but it runs well, and I have done a few things to it.
When I bought it I had all the fluids changed in the truck except for the transmission ( lots of yes and no's on that one ), had all the manifold bolts replaced, new spark plugs and valve cover gaskets put on. Other than some suspension work it didnt need anything else mechanically.

If you drove it you wouldnt know the mileage. Im hoping to keep this truck for a while and wanted to ask.... would you or would you not have the timing chain and gears done as preventative measure?

Thanks Guys

 

[RamRod37]

I would and while in there I would also replace oil pump you have to drop oil pan to remove oil pump for timing set any way also replace the VVT sprocket its not part of the timing set.

 

[Hershey Squirts]

So I just bought a stethoscope and listened around and still have no clue lol I can hear like a metal on metal tinking noise at the front of the passenger side valve cover but I also hear it around the water pump as well if it was the guide wouldn’t there be some sort of other sign other then the ticking because the truck runs great and fuel mileage is good what stumps me is when I first start the truck it’s not there but once the truck drops too 500 rpm it’s loud as hell and doesn’t go away

 

[Grams]

IF….IF you do the timing chain and gears…. be certain to also do the water pump and belt tensioner/idler also. Great time to do a coolant change.

Just don’t do what I did: I did everything you could think of at 220K miles…and $2800 later…. took it out of state on vacation…. and it was Totaled by an old man who ran his red light.

Moral of the story: Best laid plans o’ mice and men…. vehicles cant really be relied upon to stay with you…no matter how you take care of them.

(This was my third over a 50-yr period that I’d taken meticulous care of …and lost to another careless driver.)

 

[EdGs]

Lifters/cam while you're in there might be something to consider as well.