Many cars are equipped with a timing chain rather than a timing belt. While both drive a vehicle's camshaft, timing chains are nearly repair-free with no definitive replacement schedule. If your Dodge Durango yields a deafening rattle at acceleration, chances are it's time to check and replace your timing chain. Here's how to check and replace a timing chain in Durangos with a 2.5L engine.
Locate the timing chain. Replace it if the automatic chain adjuster (also known as the tensioner) is damaged or worn.
Take off the timing chain cover.
Rotate the engine so the camshaft and crankshaft sprocket marks align.
Disengage the crankshaft oil slinger and the camshaft sprocket bolt.
Release the sprockets and timing chain simultaneously.
Rotate the chain tensioner lever to the down (unlocked) location.
Condense the spring by drawing the tensioner block in the direction of the tensioner lever. Grip the block and rotate the lever until it locks.
Put in the crankshaft key, the sprockets and the timing chain. Align as needed.
Tighten the camshaft sprocket's bolt to 80 foot pounds (108 Nm).
Line up the crankshaft properly with 20 chain pins between the timing marks.
Release the chain adjuster's lever and put in the oil slinger.
Replace the sprockets and timing chain, camshaft sprocket bolt and the timing chain cover.
