Timing Chain Issue

My son has a 1987 Buick LeSabre that has 85,000 miles on it. Car ran fine, then now won't start. I believe it could be the timing chain. How hard is it to change that?

While possible, it would be very unlikely that a timing chain would fail @ 85K! Do you have spark & correct fuel pressure?

Yes, there is spark and correct fuel pressure.

Check compression next.

The carb is not sucking the air in, it is blowing the air out and the engine cranks really fast.

Well, with that said you may have a timing chain problem! It is about a 4-hr job removing the front cover & replacing the timing set. If you do the job, be sure to replace the tensioner; in fact, that may be the problem!

Do I need an engine hoist to do this?

You will need to support the engine, either from the top or bottom, to remove the front mount.

Thanks for your help!

My 87 Lesabre timing chain (actually one sprocket) failed at 93K miles. Even after replacing it, it would not start because some valves and rods had bent. I had to have the heads refurbished. Quite a big job.

Don't forget to line up the marks on the crank and cam gears before you remove the chain. Make sure you also put them back the same way they come off. Also, there is a magnet that rides on the cam gear. I would replace it since you are already there.