HELP!!!! Wont start

[aracaris]

I have just replaced the timing chain on my 1098 engine and now it won't start. Could this be due to incorrect set up of the chain in terms of having maybe one or two teeth out. Having never replace a timing chain I was under the impression and also advised that it was possible to replace the chain without taking off the cogs. I was under the impression that cause the replacement chain had a split link that this could be done. Can anyone PLEASE give me some advice!!!

[Jefftav]

Do you have a manual? If the car started before changing the timing chain and now it won't then that is where I would start by re-tracing my steps and checking marks line up then try again. There are marks on the gears to line up when you replace the chain and the 2 or 3 I have done the gears(cogs) have had to come off. That may be different for yours though?

Also just check you haven't dislodged anything that would stop the car starting, spark plug leads, connections to the coil etc...

[rayofleamington]

fitting a chain with split link means you don't need to remove the chain-wheels (sprockets / cogs.. whichever term you want apart from 'gears').

What makes me wonder is that you didn't mention making the alignment check - there are marks on each wheel that need to be lined up to make sure you have the correct alignment.
Misalignment can give all kinds of problems (non starting, backfiring, misfiring, kick -ack etc..)

[aracaris]

Many thanks for the advice chaps!!!!. Have been in contact with an engine builder and been advised that the advice I was given re spliting the chain and refitting is rubish. The gears do have to come off. As you mention the timing marks need to be alighned. The advive was that the crankshaft sprocket key should be at 12 O'clock and the camshaft sprocket should be at 2 O'clock. The rotor arm in the distributer should also be pointing to No1 cylinder. Also the dot on the cam sprocket and the raised mark on the crankshaft sprocket need to be in line which they will be with the sprocket keys are in the above position. One thing mentioned is that you can be 180 degrees out unless the rotor is facing No 1 cylinde as this will confirm correct timing. So you guesed it .......Strip down and start again. I will post the outcome later!!!!!

[bmcecosse]

Yes the sprockets do normally have to come off - although split links are of course available, and are used widely in Industry and Motorbikes - but I wouldn't fancy one in my engine. But the sprockets can be taken off without moving the crankshaft or the cam shaft - swap the chain (but frankly - the sprockets are often badly worn too and should be considered for renewal - especially the small one) and all refitted without moving anything. So - a quick check to make sure the dots still line up - and all should be fine.
In your case - I gather you have done the job - did you move anything you shouldn't have ? The sprockets should just slide off - and back on again, taking care to NOT disturb the keys in the shafts of course! If you have moved anything then you will need to go back to basics and follow the Workshop Manual.