The Honda K20 is undeniably an outstanding engine, with an excellent track record of both performance and reliability, however like any engine they need to be cared for correctly. In the case of the high revving K-series, this means regular servicing using quality fluids, filters and spark plugs, much like any other engine, really. However, unlike many engines which rely on timing belts, the K-series uses a timing chain to keep things running smoothly. This leads to one of the most common servicing questions we get asked;
“When should I replace the timing chain on my K20?”
Honda themselves don’t offer a clear service interval on the timing chain. As far as they’re concerned, it's a non-serviceable item that should be good for the life of the car, however chain stretch is well documented and certainly worth keeping in mind.
Some degree of stretch is inevitable with a timing chain. As the individual links wear through regular use, the chain elongates and becomes slack, with this process being accelerated through improper maintenance. Whilst the chain tensioner does it's job to handle the expected wear by taking up the slack, sooner or later it will become too severe and when this happens, you’ll start to notice a few things;
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Tappet noise from the engine bay
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Engine management light coming on intermittently/permanently
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Poor/rough running or idling
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Misfiring
When these happen, its important to first try and diagnose the fault as being timing chain related. A common fault code related to the chain is P0341, indicating a camshaft position error. Another way is to remove the rocker cover and check the VTC gears at the end of each cam. If you rotate these to top dead centre, the small arrows engraved on them should point directly at each other. If they don't, then it's likely you have chain stretch.
But what if you don't want to wait until there's actually a problem and would prefer to be proactive with your maintenance? As a general rule of thumb, we’d recommend replacing your timing chain at around 100,000 miles. Beyond this point it becomes increasingly common to see chain related issues.
Whilst the Timing Chain itself is inexpensive, and the primary culprit of any problems, it’s also important to replace supporting components at the same time. Our workshop time for replacing a K20 timing chain is 4 to 5 hours, so it’s best to be thorough and only have to do the job once! As such, we highly recommend the following items are replaced at the same time;
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Timing Chain Guides - used to keep the chain running smoothly, these can wear over time
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Timing Chain Tensioner - using a spring loaded piston, these keep the chain under constant tension to mitigate the natural stretch of the chain overtime
These can all be purchased along with a chain in our K20 Timing Chain Kit, which is suitable for most K20 derivative engines found in a wide range of models, such as the Civic Type R EP3, FN2 and FD2 models, Integra Type R DC5 and Accord Euro R CL7. Our kit is supplied with Honda's revised version of the top chain guide. Physically longer than the earlier version, it better prevents chain slap, making it a good quality of life upgrade (note the size difference of the top guide, far right of the below image.)
As the rocker cover has to be removed when replacing the chain, we also recommend replacing the Rocker Cover Gasket and carrying out an oil and filter change for added peace of mind.
If you're considering having your chain replaced or would like to double check which parts are right for you, Contact Us and we'll be more than happy to assist.
