how important is it to replace the timing chain?

i ve heard from diffrent sources that a new timing chain should be installed at around 100000 miles on my 22re. is this true. i now have 127000 miles on it. i know that if it breaks, the valves collide with the pistons (or somethin like that). ive heard of 22re going for 200000 or more without a timing chain replacement. i havent replaced it for several reasons, one is that i don't have the money to pay someone to do it, two is that i don't have the confidence to do it myself, and three i want someone who has experience with the 22re to do it.

Unless you can hear noise from the chain leave it alone. Change your oil on a regular basis and you shouldn't have to worry about it. I put 228K on my 92 P/U and it ran just like the day I bought it when I sold it.

Timing belts are the ones that need to be replaced at around 75K. A chain shouldn't need to be replaced. The only issue with the 22re is the timing chain guides. Search this issue within this forum. It is a known problem, but fairly easy/inexpensive fix.

Timing chains do not necessarily break but they do strech and don't make alot of noise unless the guides are worn. But when they slowly strech, they eat away at the water cover. I thought that the previous owner of my '91 Toyota Pick-up replaced the timing chain and guides and at 186,000 miles, my whole engine washed out to the point of no repair. I have also heard of simular stories to mine. My segestion for you is to change it. Plus if you do it yourself, you can do alot of double checking if your engin is running right and any internal modifications at the same time.

As gator said above, your chain does not need to be replaced unless you hear it making noise - meaning that it has stretched out and is eating at the guides and water cover. No need to fix things that aren't broken.

As gator said above, your chain does not need to be replaced unless you hear it making noise - meaning that it has stretched out and is eating at the guides and water cover. No need to fix things that aren't broken.
Amen on that. I have never had to replace a chain and I have had a few toyotas with that little 22r engine. Damn thing is tough as nails.

much thanks