Timing chain marks on Nissan Note: step-by-step instructions with photos and diagrams

Timing chain (timing chain) in Nissan Note - a critical element, the accuracy of which determines the performance of the engine. An error in setting marks even by one tooth can lead to a collision of pistons with valves, which can lead to major repairs. This article will help you understand the nuances of shaft synchronization and the features of marks for different modifications Note (including popular 1.4 HR14DE And 1.6 HR16DE), and also avoid common mistakes when replacing a chain.

We will analyze in detail where the marks are on the crankshaft, camshafts and oil pump, and how to correctly align them, taking into account the design features Nissan, and why standard instructions from manuals are often silent about key points. We will pay special attention to diagnosing chain wear using indirect signs - this will help prevent breakage and serious breakdowns.

Timing design in Nissan Note: why timing marks are so important

Engines HR series, installed on Nissan Note (including restyled versions E12), equipped with a timing chain drive with an automatic tensioner. Unlike belt systems, the chain is considered more reliable, but its stretching over time leads to a shift in valve timing. It is to correct this shift that they serve timing marks - they ensure that the valves open and close exactly at the right moment relative to the position of the pistons.

The system involves three key components labeled:

• 🔧 Crankshaft — the mark on the sprocket (gear) is aligned with the casting on the cylinder block.
• 🔄 Camshafts (intake and exhaust) - the marks on the sprockets should look straight up and coincide with the cutouts on the cylinder head cover.
• ⚙️ Oil pump - An often overlooked element, the mark on which must match the mark on the chain.

Feature Nissan Note - use two-stage chain drive: The primary chain connects the crankshaft to the intermediate shaft, and the secondary chain connects the intermediate shaft to the camshafts. This complicates the labeling procedure, as it requires synchronizing several stars at once.

⚠️ Attention: On engines HR16DE after 2012, the mark on the exhaust camshaft sprocket may be shifted by 1 tooth relative to the standard position. This is a factory feature, not a bug! Check with the service manual for your year of manufacture.

Where to look for timing marks on a Nissan Note: photos and diagrams

The location of the marks depends on the engine modification. Below are diagrams for the most common versions:

Engine	Crankshaft mark	Camshaft marks	Additional labels
HR14DE (1.4)	Cutout on the star opposite the low tide on the block (9 o'clock)	Both camshafts are marked up (12 o'clock), coincide with the cutouts on the cover	Mark on the oil pump (aligned with the chain)
HR16DE (1.6, until 2012)	Likewise HR14DE, but the cutout is shifted by 1 tooth against the emergency	Inlet - 12 o'clock, outlet - 11:30 (angle 30°)	Mark on the intermediate shaft (under the plastic cover)
HR16DE (1.6, after 2012)	The cutout on the star aligns with the marker on the block (6 o'clock)	Both camshafts are marked up, but the exhaust is shifted 1 tooth to the right	Additional mark on the chain (red link)

To visualize the marks on the camshafts, it is often necessary to remove the valve cover. On the crankshaft, the mark is usually hidden behind the alternator pulley - it can be seen through the inspection window in the block or after removing the pan (on some models).

Important: On some versions Note marks on camshafts may be represented not by cutouts, but colored chain links (usually red or yellow). These links must coincide with the marks on the shaft sprockets. If the chain has been replaced before, make sure that the colored links have not been swapped!

Step-by-step instructions: how to set timing marks

The procedure requires accuracy and consistency. Below is the algorithm for the engine HR16DE (similar to HR14DE adjusted for the location of the marks).

1. Remove the right front wheel and plastic mudguard. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.

2. Remove the alternator belt and remove the crankshaft pulley (a puller will be required).

3. Set the piston of cylinder 1 to TDC (top dead center) by rotating the crankshaft clockwise. Check the position using the mark on the sprocket (it should coincide with the low tide on the block).

4. Remove the cylinder head cover and check the alignment of the marks on the camshafts. If they don't match, the chain is stretched or has jumped.

5. Loosen the chain tensioner (unscrew the fixing bolt) and remove the chain from the sprockets. When installing a new chain, refer to the colored links.

6. Install the chain according to the diagram: first on the crankshaft, then on the intermediate shaft, then on the camshafts. The marks must match at the same time!

7. Tighten the tensioner (torque 40–45 Nm) and turn the crankshaft 2 turns. Recheck the marks.

The crankshaft mark matches the ebb on the block|Camshaft marks look straight up|Colored chain links are aligned with sprocket marks|The chain tensioner is fixed with the correct torque|The crankshaft turns without jamming-->

⚠️ Attention: If after assembly the engine does not start or runs intermittently, do not try to start it again! This may cause the valves to bend. First check the alignment of the marks and the chain tension.

Common mistakes when placing tags and how to avoid them

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes that lead to serious damage. Here are the most common ones:

• ❌ Rotate the crankshaft counterclockwise. This can cause the chain to weaken and the marks to become dislodged. Rotate only clockwise!
• ❌ Ignoring the oil pump mark. On HR16DE Failure to do so will lead to an imbalance in oil pressure and accelerated chain wear.
• ❌ Using an old chain with a new sprocket (or vice versa). The timing kit must be changed completely, otherwise the chain will stretch faster.
• ❌ Failure to check the marks after cranking the crankshaft. Always make 2 full turns and check the alignment!

Another common problem is chain jumps 1–2 teeth due to tensioner wear. Signs of this:

• 🔊 The engine is running at idle speed.
• 🚗 Power drop and “failures” during overclocking.
• ⚡ Lights up Check Engine with phase errors (for example, P0016 or P0017).

Signs of timing chain wear: when is it time to change

The manufacturer recommends checking the condition of the timing chain at Nissan Note every 100–120 thousand km, but the actual period depends on operating conditions. Here are the key symptoms indicating the need for replacement:

• 🔊 Noise from under the hood on a cold engine (the chain rattles when starting).
• 📉 Rough idle and vibrations, especially after warming up.
• 🛑 Errors in shaft position sensors (P0340, P0345).
• 🔧 Visual wear: Chain stretches more than 5 mm when tensioned.

For accurate diagnosis you can use endoscope — it will allow you to inspect the chain and sprockets without complete disassembly. It's also useful to check ignition timing using a diagnostic scanner: a deviation of more than ±5° from normal often indicates a stretched chain.

What happens if you ignore chain wear?

When stretched critically, the chain can jump several teeth, which will lead to a collision between the valves and the pistons. Repair in this case will cost 3–5 times more than timely replacement of the chain. On engines HR16DE Exhaust valves are especially vulnerable - they bend even with a slight phase shift.

Choosing a timing kit for Nissan Note: what to buy

When replacing the timing chain, always use complete set, including:

• 🔗 Timing chain (original - 13028-4M50A for HR16DE).
• ⚙️ Crankshaft and camshaft sprockets.
• 🔧 Chain tensioner and damper.
• 🛢️ Gaskets (cylinder head covers, oil pump).

Recommended brands:

Manufacturer	Catalog number (HR16DE)	Notes
Nissan (original)	13028-4M50A (chain) + 13070-4M50A (set)	Highest quality, but expensive. Suitable for turbocharged versions.
Ajusa	71016300	A good analogue, often used in services. All gaskets included.
INA	530 0543 10	German quality, but there are fakes. Check the packaging!
Gates	K015631XS	A budget option, but the chain may stretch ahead of schedule.

Beware of fakes! Original chain Nissan has a laser engraved logo on the links and comes in a package with a hologram. Analogues from Ajusa And INA must have certificates of conformity.

Frequently asked questions about timing marks on Nissan Note

Is it possible to set the marks without removing the valve cover?

Theoretically, yes, if you use the crankshaft inspection window and focus on the oil pump marks. However, without visual inspection of the camshafts, the risk of error is ~30%. For accuracy, it is better to remove the cover.

What should I do if the marks do not match after replacing the chain?

1. Check whether the chain on the sprockets has jumped (especially on the intermediate shaft).

2. Make sure the tensioner is properly secured and not loose.

3. Turn the crankshaft 2 turns and check the marks again. If the problem persists, the chain is not installed correctly.

How often should the timing chain be checked?

Every 60–80 thousand km or when noise appears. On engines with a turbine (HR16DET) the interval is reduced to 50 thousand km due to increased loads.

Is it possible to drive if the chain rattles, but the marks match?

For a short time - yes, but this is a signal of an imminent break. The rattling chain has already been stretched and its resource has been exhausted. It is dangerous to delay replacement!

What is the difference between the labels on the HR14DE and HR16DE?

On HR14DE the camshaft marks are symmetrical (both up), and on HR16DE The exhaust camshaft is offset by 1 tooth. Also on HR16DE after 2012, a mark was added on the intermediate shaft.