How to fix the timing chain/belt on a 2003 chevy cavalier

Reynaldo Andico

• 2431 Answers
• Posted on Aug 28, 2011

SOURCE: need a timing chain diagram

2.2 DOHC cavalier

SOURCE: how do i align the timing marks on a 1997 chevy cavalier 2.2l

on both timming gears there is 8mm holes that line up 2 the same size holes in the head, stick a 8mm bolt through to alighn cams, the crank marck pionts staight up. you might have the gears on the wrong cam.

Harvey N Tawatao

• 3854 Answers
• Posted on May 04, 2009

SOURCE: how to replace a timing chain 2000 chevy cavalier

I am familiar with that vehicle but generally with timing chain replacement, the engine needs full access for pulley and cover removal and in some cases the cylinder head requires removal.
Generally timing chains last so that they only need replacement at engine overhaul and it is not an economic proposition to have to replace a chain unless some relative degree of engine work is also required at that time. 

Engine timing chains generally have a tensioner on them which maintains tension, but some chains can wear significantly and cause timing cover to be "ground away" because of "slop".

If the engine is making the noisy rattle of the timing chain against the cover etc, I would schedule a top overhaul (head, machine, test and valve grind) with the chain replacement dependent on mileage with the degree of action.

Some simple simplex timing chains (type of chain similar to motor bike chain) may be replaced without dismantling the engines but I would expect your chain would be a "duplex" dual sprocket type, these are most common. 
These chains are not generally expensive but replacing them can involve a fair amount of work. 

Good Luck and hope this helps, Others will have different ideas.