Timing Chain And Gears Question

[ahiggin]

I have a '98 4.3L, W engine code with 190,000 miles on the engine. I'm the original owner, so I know the timing chain and gears have never been replaced. I've maintained it well. I'm trying to avoid the carnage I experienced years ago with my '68 Corvette big block when the cam gear let go.

 

Does my 4.3L have steel gears? Should I replace the timing chain and gears? It is in a Safari van, so I'm not eager to do the replacement, unless there is a reasonably moderate risk of an engine-destroying chain or gear failure. And I do plan to keep the vehicle for many more miles.

[DwayneJ]

Don't even worry about it.

[ahiggin]

Thanks, that's the way I was leaning. And if it ever self-destructs, that'll be a good reason for dropping in a V8.

[nickvrebel]

at that mileage if the timing gear lets go it's just an excuse to pull the motor to get it freshened up anyway.

 

In my experience GM motors with timing chains typically are designed for the chain/ gears to last the life of the motor.

 

Timing belts are a totally different animal.