Replacing the timing chain on a Nissan Almera Classic: when is it needed and how to do it right

Timing chain (timing chain) in Nissan Almera Classic (body N16) is a critical element, the condition of which determines the performance of the engine. Unlike a timing belt, a chain is considered more reliable, but over time it also stretches, wears out, or even breaks. Consequences of a broken circuit Almera Classic with engines QG15DE (1.5 l) or QG18DE (1.8 L) can be fatal: bent valves, damaged cylinder head and major engine repairs.

In this article we will look at how to determine that the timing chain requires replacement, what resource it has Almera Classic, what tools and spare parts will be needed, and we will also describe in detail the replacement process - from preparation to assembly. We will pay special attention to typical mistakes that even experienced car owners make, and we will give recommendations on choosing high-quality components.

Signs of timing chain wear on a Nissan Almera Classic

The timing chain does not have a clear replacement schedule, like a belt, but the manufacturer recommends checking its condition every 100–120 thousand km. However, in practice, the resource may be reduced to 60–80 thousand km when driving aggressively, frequently overheating the engine or using low-quality oil. Here are the key symptoms indicating the need for replacement:

• 🔊 Metallic clanging or knocking noise on the cold side of the engine (especially noticeable during startup). The sound may disappear after warming up, but this does not mean that the problem has gone away.
• 📉 Floating speed at idle or failures during acceleration - a sign of disrupted valve timing due to a stretched chain.
• ⚠️ Check Engine with errors in camshaft position sensors (P0340, P0345) or crankshaft (P0335).
• 🔧 Visual wear: When examining the chain, cracks are visible on the rollers, play in the tensioner or wear on the links.

If you ignore these signs, the chain may jump 1-2 teeth, which will lead to disruption of the synchronization of the valves and pistons. In the worst case, the valves break and hit the pistons. On Almera Classic with motors QG it almost always ends major repairs.

⚠️ Attention: If you hear a sharp metallic knock when starting the engine, which does not go away after warming up, stop using the car immediately! This may be a sign of critical chain wear or breakage.

Which timing chain to choose for Almera Classic: original vs analogues

The market offers original chains from Nissan and analogues from third-party manufacturers. The original set (chain + tensioner + dampers + rollers) has an article number 13028-4M515 (for QG15DE/QG18DE). Its average price is 8–12 thousand rubles. However, many car owners choose analogues, which are cheaper, but not always inferior in quality.

Manufacturer	Article	Price (RUB)	Features
Nissan (original)	13028-4M515	8 000–12 000	Guaranteed quality, complete set
Ajusa (Spain)	21015000	4 500–6 000	Good price/quality ratio, popular in Europe
Febi (Germany)	24360	5 000–7 000	High resource, but there are fakes
Gates (USA)	K015631XS	6 000–8 500	Reliable brand, but the chain may be stiffer than the original
Contitech (Germany)	CT1168K1	5 500–7 500	Smooth operation, but requires frequent tensioner checks

When choosing an analogue, pay attention to completeness: Kits often lack dampers or tensioners. Also check number of links - for Almera Classic need 124 links (may differ for some analogues). Before purchasing, check the part number with the vehicle's VIN number or the data on the old chain.

Tools and materials for replacing the timing chain

Replacing the chain with Almera Classic requires special tools and training. Without them, the process may be delayed or result in damage to parts. Here's a complete list of what you'll need:

• 🔧 Set of sockets and keys: 10, 12, 14, 17, 19 mm heads, socket wrenches, extensions.
• 🔨 Special tools:
  • Camshaft lock (Nissan SST KV10112100 or equivalent).
  • Crankshaft pulley puller (Nissan SST 30103-00X).
  • Torque wrench (for tightening with force 20–25 Nm And 45–55 Nm).
• 🛠️ Consumables:
  • New timing chain (kit).
  • Valve cover gasket (11044-JM00A).
  • Sealant Loctite 574 or similar.
  • Oil Nissan 5W-30 (for topping up after replacement).
• 📋 Additionally:
  • Marker for marks.
  • Flashlight with magnet (for searching for fallen bolts).
  • Rags and solvent for cleaning surfaces.

If you don't have a camshaft retainer, you can make one yourself from a metal plate using a template. However, this is risky - if the valves are not fixed correctly, they can hit the pistons. Also don't forget about cleanliness of the workplace: Dirt entering an open engine will cause premature wear of the new chain.

Drain the oil and antifreeze|Disconnect the battery terminal|Remove the right front wheel and wheel arch liner|Prepare marks for fixing the shafts|Check the completeness of the new chain set-->

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the timing chain

The process of replacing the chain with Almera Classic takes 4–6 hours if you have experience. If this is your first time, be patient and follow the instructions strictly step by step. Make sure to take photographs of each stage - this will help with reassembly.

Step 1: Removing the old chain

1. Remove right fender liner And wheel, then unscrew generator and move it to the side (it is not necessary to remove it completely).

2. Clear access to the crankshaft pulley: remove the alternator belt and unscrew the pulley bolt (you will need the help of a partner to fix the crankshaft through the window in the clutch housing).

3. Remove valve cover, having previously unscrewed 15 bolts (do not lose the sealing washers!). Clean the surface of old sealant.

4. Install the piston 1st cylinder at TDC (top dead center) and fix the camshafts with a special tool. If there is no clamp, use a marker to mark the sprockets and chain.

Step 2: Installing a New Chain

1. Remove chain tensioner (unscrew 2 bolts) and remove the old chain along with guides and rollers.

2. Install new ones calmers and rollers, having previously lubricated them with engine oil. Secure them with bolts firmly 20–25 Nm.

3. Put on new chain onto the stars, aligning the marks. Make sure the tensioner is retracted (if it is automatic, squeeze it and secure it with a pin).

4. Check the alignment of the marks on the crankshaft and camshafts. If they are out of order, the chain may jump when starting!

Step 3: Assembly and Testing

1. Reinstall valve cover with a new gasket, applying a thin layer of sealant to the joints.

2. Tighten the crankshaft pulley bolt firmly 100–120 Nm and install the alternator belt.

3. Fill with oil and antifreeze, then manually turn the crankshaft 2 turns to make sure there is no jamming.

4. Start the engine and listen to its operation. Extraneous noise or vibration is a sign of an assembly error.

⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the circuit the panel lights up Check Engine, check the error codes! A common problem is incorrectly set valve timing, which causes the ECU to record a discrepancy in the signals from the crankshaft and camshaft sensors.

What should I do if the chain jumps during installation?

If after reassembly the engine does not start or runs erratically, the chain may have jumped 1-2 teeth. In this case:

1. Remove the valve cover and check the marks.

2. If the marks on the camshafts do not match, loosen the tensioner and reinstall the chain.

3. If the engine has already been started with a skipped chain, there is a high probability of the valves hitting the pistons - disassembling the cylinder head will be required.

Typical mistakes when replacing the timing chain on Almera Classic

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes that lead to breakdowns. Here are the most common of them:

• 🔧 Incorrect camshaft fixation. Without a special device, the marks may become confused, which will lead to phase failure.
• 🛑 Ignoring the replacement of dampers and rollers. Old parts accelerate wear on the new chain.
• 🔩 Insufficient bolt tightening. It is especially dangerous for the crankshaft pulley - it can turn.
• 🧴 Saving on sealant. Cheap sealant can leak after 1–2 thousand km.
• 🔄 Untested tensioner. If it jams, the chain slips or breaks.

Another common mistake is use of pneumatic tools for tightening bolts. A torque wrench is required here: overtightening can damage the threads in the aluminum cylinder head, and undertightening can lead to vibrations.

How much does it cost to replace a timing chain on an Almera Classic at a service center?

The cost of working in a car service depends on the region and level of the workshop. The average prices in Russia are:

• 🔧 Standard service: 6,000–9,000 rubles (work only, no spare parts).
• 🏆 Official dealer: 12,000–18,000 rubles (work guarantee, but more expensive than spare parts).
• 🛠️ Garage craftsmen: 4,000–6,000 rubles (risk of poor quality assembly).

If you add the cost of the original chain kit (8–12 thousand rubles) and consumables (gasket, sealant, oil), the total replacement cost will be 15–25 thousand rubles. Replacing it yourself will cost less, but requires skills and tools.

You can save money if you buy spare parts in advance and negotiate with the master to reduce the price for the work when providing his materials. However, not all services go for this - some insist on using “their” components.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing the timing chain on a Nissan Almera Classic

Is it possible to drive with a stretched chain if there is no knocking?

No! A stretched chain, even without visible signs of wear, can jump several teeth, which will lead to a violation of the valve timing. The consequences range from loss of power to valves hitting the pistons. At the first signs of wear (noise, floating speed), the chain must be replaced.

How often should I check the condition of the chain on Almera Classic?

The manufacturer recommends checking the chain every 100 thousand km, but in practice it is better to do this once every 60–80 thousand km, especially if the car is operated in difficult conditions (city traffic jams, frequent cold starts). Also check the chain when buying a used car - the previous owner may not have monitored its condition.

Is it possible to replace the timing chain without removing the engine?

Yes, on Almera Classic The chain can be changed without dismantling the engine. It is enough to remove the right wheel, fender liner, generator and valve cover. However, in some cases (for example, when replacing sprockets), it may be necessary to partially remove the engine mounts for better access.

What oil should I fill in after replacing the chain?

After replacing the chain, it is recommended to fill synthetic oil with viscosity 5W-30 or 5W-40compliant with specification Nissan. Optimal options:

• Nissan Strong Save X E Special 5W-30 (original).
• Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 (for modern engines).
• Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W-30 (good wear protection).

The oil must be changed immediately after installing a new chain, since the old one may contain metal particles from a worn chain.

What happens if you don't replace the chain on time?

Ignoring timing chain wear on Almera Classic is fraught with serious consequences:

• Open circuit - 100% impact of valves on pistons (repair from 100 thousand rubles).
• Chain jumping - phase violation, loss of power, risk of detonation.
• Worn sprockets - camshafts or crankshaft will need to be replaced.

On motors QG15DE/QG18DE a broken circuit almost always leads to a major overhaul, since the valves bend even with slight displacement.