Chevrolet: Corsica Timing Chain Break - Engine Damage?, chevy corsica, 1992 chevy corsica

Question
I have a 1992 Chevy Corsica LT that I have owned about 6 years.  While I was accelerating to get on the highway, I believe that the timing chain broke.

What I am trying to determine is whether the valves and pistons can come into contact when the timing chain breaks in the 3.1L V6 engine.  I got an initial quote of about $300 (seems reasonable) to change the chain but the mechanic cautions of the possibility of bent valves.  While I understand expressing caution from a generic responsibility standpoint, I would think that the answer to the question of bent valves should be yes or no, before starting the job.  I would think that the design of the engine (i.e. valve reliefs in the piston top) would dictate if the valves and pistons can come into contact with each other when a timing chain breaks, or not.

Basically, I am trying decide whether $300 to fix the chain is a "reasonably" safe bet or not.  The rest of the engine and drive chain seems to be in good working order (i.e. no burning oil, no trans slip, 150K miles).

Any insight or your experience would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,
--marc


Answer
Hi Marc, yes it is possible that there could be damage. If there is severe damage they may see it by removing the valve covers(maybe but not for sure). Other than that you have to remove the heads or replace the chain to know for sure. I worked at a dealer for several years and I have seen just as many with damage as ones with no damage. I hope this helps you, if you need more info just let me know. Regards, Keith