1999 996 C2 Chain Tensioner Replacement

Hi All, We have a 1999 996 C2 with just under 160,000 km. Fortunately the car has been quite reliable (I'm touching wood) and we've only had to do basic maintenance other than an A/C line repair, MAF, and cam solenoid (consider clutch routine repair). Never had a RMS issue, or any other leak, and doesn't use enough oil between changes to notice (again, I'm touching wood). Anyway, while the car runs fine (maybe a little down on power, but that could be our imagination), it is screaming for a full going over. We plan to do all the basic stuff such as filters, fluids, plugs, and because it has the traction control and limited slip differential, I understand that may need some servicing as well and will research more. The big issue that is bothering us is the timing chain. From about 80K the chain has made quite a noise when starting up. The dealer advised that many of them do it, and some worse than ours, but is still a worry despite not really being any worse than it has been for some years. I've tried to do a Rennlist search, but unless I'm not doing it correctly, I can't find much information on the replacement of the tensioner, guides, etc. Does anyone have a link or advise on the basic procedure? I understand that it is not likely to be a quick job. I'm assuming the engine needs to be dropped? I'm posting this for my dad who has significantly more mechanical skill and knowledge than I (he rebuild our 914 motor as an example, but is a bit lazy when it comes to the internet...) and we have a pretty well stocked garage, so we are hoping this is a possible do it yourself job over the winter. Any links or information appreciated for our initial fact gathering stage. Jeff

I also have considered this and have not spent too much time looking for info, BUT, I have heard it can be dont with the motor in or out (out is easier) There is a guy here who has gone thru it an posted some pictures. He hasnt been seen in a few days but should be back soon ?? for now try this link..... Repair Manuals GL and when you do it take pics, and post comments as to difficulty, price and condition of old parts, results....that is useful many here -

That was quick! Thanks - if we tackle the job (I don't think we have much choice...) we'll definitely take pictures, but it would be great if we could also learn from others' experiences. As for the workshop manuals - thanks. I had no idea they were available to download online - sounds like a job for tomorrow night with a few drinks. When we had our 928, we had the old-school paper workshop manuals in about 10 brown-orange binders. They were quite expensive, but sometimes there is no substitute for paper.

This job is straight forward.. The noise you are hearing is definitely due to the chain tensioners bleeding down and loosening the chains at start up. I see this all the time. You can do the IMS to crank chain tensioner in the car as well as the bank 4-6 tensioner.. Bank 1-3 can be done in the car with some accessories removed, but its very tough to do.

by "very tough" from a home job stand point, would it be tougher than removing the engine? (providing you dont have a lift and are just using jacks and such) estimated hours? BTW Jake, I was talking with my indy guys today and we started discussing this "guy" who is making new cases for the m96 motor...I started talking about the IMS updates and he says, "yea, its the same guy" naturally we both smiled when your name came to the table, seems they have a high opinion of your research and products.... just thought I would pass it forward... small world, good news travels fast.

Cool!! Yes its a small world.. Good word travels fast, bad word travels fsater.. Glad it was all good! A lift makes the job much more managable. If you don't have one, pulling the engine would be simpler.

really, that sounds backwards - YIKES, I dont know, I am a bit scared to pull the motor at home...My garage is kind of small (as are the two things that dangle ) GL to the OP, I think I will save up for a new garage and some bigger b@lls! (hahahha)

Did you do a search on Renntech.org?