European TS (2,3) up for chain change?

[zenswede]

Gentlemen, greetings from Sweden! I received such great support here before that I decided to drop another bomb at you all.
I've been running my Pontiac hard in the snowy hills, and she finally hit that major 'must-be-fixed' moment. I just ordered new shocks from germany (Monroe w. level control and adaptors), an old Haynes manual (the official GM one) and put a 100$ bid on a new chain kit on e-bay. The kit is actually for the Pontiac Grand Am sunfie 92-95, as I previously learned that my european TS has that 2.3 litre engine. Dawng, I really hope that's true! So, to the quiz:

Changing the timing chain is the closest one can come to brain surgery, and I've got cold feet after reading the repair manual. Yet it has to be done (and the repair shop ask for 2.500$) so I'm trying to study up for a DIY. But I'm not even sure if that coverplate and the sprockets beneath can be removed with the engine still in the car. Do I have to lift the whole engine out or what?
I'm thankful for all advices I can get on this. After all, running a TS here is a lonely job. It get remarks from both the Volvo-drivers and the 'real' Pontiac drivers (some muscle-cars here), heh. Keep me floating. BR/Daniel

[Jrs3800]

You should be able to do this in the van... It won't be easy, but its doable..

I actually hate Quad 4's in terms of working on them..

What does the chain kit include? Does it have all of the chain guides and timing chain tensioner? at the same time now is also the time to go a bit further and replace the water pump..

If you don't replace the water pump now and it goes bad you are in for a headache as the chain and tensioner will have to come off yet again..

As well you'll most likely want a new front plate gasket set which would include the front main seal...

[yellowfiero]

I can't imagine a TS with the Q4, or with any 4 banger for that manner.

[zenswede]

Thank's, Jrs. I needed a reminder of that gasket set, as I have none. Do I need to order one, or can I slab on some silicone-version unheard of that would last 10 years?
That chain kit include sprockets, chain and those tensioners mentioned...



And yeah, a 4 cylinder in a van ain't the top of the line. But hey, that's what you American hooligans sent us...and kept those 6:th and 8:th to yourself. I'm glad that most of that bodywork's plastic so I can get up them hills, heh. /Z

[Jrs3800]

You need the front cover gasket set... This will include both front cover gaskets, Yes there are 2... One you can see the other you can't.. This kit will also include the front main seal which you will want to replace...

Can you get a Fel Pro front cover gasket kit for the 2.3?