Snapped Timing Chain
 

The timing chain on my son's 2001 snapped while out riding yesterday. Luckily he coasted to a stop.

Looking at rebuilding the engine within a few weeks, have to get parts first (gaskets/chain).

Anyone rebuild one of these engines that can offer tips/advice?

Can't find a gasket kit so I'll have to order individual gaskets/seals.

Re: Snapped Timing Chain
 

Get a price on all the parts you may need. That will probably scare you half silly. Then search CL for a used complete running engine. It will probably be cheaper.

Re: Snapped Timing Chain
 

Or just buy him another gz :/

Re: Snapped Timing Chain
 

Sorry for ignorance, what is timing chain? Is it inside he cilinder?

Re: Snapped Timing Chain
 

Timing chain or cam chain, same thing. Runs from the crankshaft to the cylinder head. Parts prices aren't that bad, it'll be a fun project.

Re: Snapped Timing Chain
 

Is the valve train non-interfering? Since it is a relatively low compression engine I would think so.

Re: Snapped Timing Chain
 

Haven't heard of one of these snapping.
Is it possible that the bike was running with low oil for long periods of time? Unless the chain tensioner got messed up I don't see why it would ever be under enough pressure to cause it to snap. Can't rule out the possibility of simply a failed link. But even then, under normal riding conditions and properly lubricated... I would think if it was going to snap it would have done so a long time ago.

Anyway, follow this link to Ronayers: - http://www.ronayers.com/Fiche/TypeID/26 ... odel/GZ250

They have just about everything that I can see. Gaskets are like $5 a piece and the whole cam chain package is only $80.

Re: Snapped Timing Chain
 

A bit of advice, before you go foreward with the thinking "you just need new gaskets and a chain" you better dissasemble the engine FIRST for a close inspecion. I have never heard of a cam chain "snapping" for no aparrent reason. If the chain did snap, that means that the piston also smashed into the valves, which most likely trashed the cyl head. If your not sure what to look for take the engine to a Suzuki dealer for a damage assessment. You can potentially spend and easy $600+ on repairs, and if you have another issue you could potentially repair the snapped chain, then blow the engine again after a short period of time.

Re: Snapped Timing Chain
 

Or just buy him another gz :/

Re: Snapped Timing Chain
 

I don't plan to order any parts until I strip down the engine and see what has happened. I've rebuilt three Harley engines so this one should be easier ( I hope) but it will be a lot lighter to lift compared to an EVO engine.