[S12] FJ20E normal chain rattle or do I have a problem?

Started by sunny1600 · Apr 18, 2011 · 9postsSMF 2010–26

sunny1600Apr 18, 2011, 5:18 am · #1

[S12] FJ20E normal chain rattle or do I have a problem?
Hi guys

My silvia S12 GP with FJ20E makes a strange rattle. I have read about the mazda chain tensioner and typical FJ20E rattle on FJ20.com but I am wondering if this sound is normal?
It does exactly like they said that it does rattle when started but it also rattles when I hit the 2000RPM area.

I have included a video of it. Some advice please guys.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_mBaJ4vZEU

Thanks

Mark

SlickS12Apr 18, 2011, 11:34 am · #2

Hmm, not a lot of fj owners on this site, but maybe people on the australian site would have a little more insight on the subject.

ArroApr 18, 2011, 1:38 pm · #3

You need to perform the FJ20 Mazda chain tensioner mod.

The stock FJ20 chain is known to rattle as the tensioner does not properly take up the slack. Apparently, there is one from an 80's RWD Mazda 626 that is nearly identical to ours, and with a slight modification can replace ours. It's mechanical, and ratchets into tension position.

http://www.turbocreations.com/fj20/chainrattle.html

methylpropApr 18, 2011, 9:10 pm · #4

found ben D's s12 on that site. dont look the same.

sunny1600Apr 19, 2011, 12:44 pm · #5

methylprop on 09:10:38 PM / 18-Apr-11found ben D's s12 on that site. dont look the same.

explain please? I dont know what you are talking about.

@ Arro:
Tomorrow Im going to order the Mazda chain tensioner. Hoping it will be the end of this rattling.
Im already on FJ20.com so I know about that mazda chain tensioner. But its not only at start up which is what bothers me.
Around 2000RPM with warm engine. Will get you guys updated.

sam31183Apr 19, 2011, 12:52 pm · #6

I am guessing the tensioner is similar to the ka tensioner and uses oil pressure to tension....although, i could be way off...i am thinking maybe it is gummed up possibly? If that was the case then replacing it would resolve the noise problem anyways...

ArroApr 19, 2011, 3:36 pm · #7

@Sam: you are correct, the Nissan Fj tensioner is also oil pressure based. The Mazda is mechanical (ratcheting).

sunny1600Apr 19, 2011, 5:03 pm · #8

Well we'll see I guess. Tomorrow Im heading to the Mazda dealer and order the chain.
Will let you guys know if this solves the rattling.

sunny1600Apr 27, 2011, 8:40 am · #9

Rattling is gone. Removed the chain tensioner and replaced it with the modded mazda one.
Car is running good now

Also set the timing right.