Replacing the chain tensioner VAZ 2107 (photo and video)

VAZ 2107 TIMING CHAIN DRIVE - DESCRIPTION

The VAZ 2107 timing chain transmission has a long service life, but someday it’s time to replace it. The need for this arises as a result of stretching of the links, when the chain tensioner can no longer cope with the functions assigned to it. In addition, the parts responsible for the normal operation of the timing drive also wear out over time.

The main elements of the VAZ 2107 timing drive are a chain, a damper, a shoe, a tensioner and sprockets

SOOTHER

In the chain drive of the VAZ 2107 gas distribution mechanism, a damper is used to dampen jerks and vibrations of the chain. Without this part, as the vibration amplitude increases, the chain may fly off the gears or break completely. A chain transmission break is most likely at maximum crankshaft speed, which happens instantly. At the moment of a break, the intake and exhaust valves fail. After such damage, the engine will at best require a major overhaul.

The chain damper is designed to dampen vibrations of the chain drive during engine operation.

By its design, the damper is a plate made of high-carbon steel with two holes for fastening. Another element that is simultaneously responsible for calming and tensioning the chain is the shoe. Its rubbing surface is made of high-strength polymer material.

The tensioner shoe provides chain tension, eliminating sagging

TENSIONER

Based on the name, you can understand that the device is designed to prevent sagging of the timing chain while the engine is running. There are several types of such mechanisms:

automatic;
mechanical;
hydraulic.

Automatic tensioners appeared not so long ago, but have already managed to show their positive and negative sides. The main advantage of the product is that there is no need to periodically adjust the chain tension, since the mechanism keeps it constantly taut. The disadvantages of the auto tensioner include quick failure, high cost, and poor tension, as evidenced by reviews from some car owners.

Hydraulic tensioners operate as a result of the action of oil under pressure, which is supplied from the engine lubrication system. This design does not require intervention from the driver in terms of adjusting the chain drive, but the mechanism can sometimes jam, which negates all its advantages.

The most common tensioner is mechanical. However, it has a significant drawback: the product becomes clogged with small particles, as a result of which the plunger jams and the mechanism is unable to perform its functions during tension adjustment.

The tensioner provides chain tension and allows for adjustments when needed.

CHAIN

The timing chain in the VAZ 2107 engine is designed to connect the crankshaft and camshaft: they have gears on which the chain is put. After starting the power unit, synchronous rotation of the indicated shafts is ensured through a chain transmission. If synchronization is disrupted for any reason, the timing mechanism malfunctions, resulting in the stable operation of the engine being disrupted. In such a situation, power failures, deterioration in dynamics, and increased fuel consumption are observed.

The timing chain in the VAZ 2107 engine is designed to connect the crankshaft and camshaft

As the vehicle is used, the chain stretches as high loads are placed on it. This indicates the need for periodic adjustment. Otherwise, the sagging will lead to the links on the gears jumping, which will disrupt the operation of the power unit. To prevent this from happening, the factory recommends adjusting the chain tension every 10 thousand km. mileage

When is stretching necessary?

The gas distribution mechanism on the VAZ 2107 injector consists of the following elements:

intermediate and crankshaft gears;
camshaft and intermediate shaft;
rocker;
sedative;
intake and exhaust valve;
tensioner;
shoe;
timing chain drive.

The photo shows timing parts.

Components of the gas distribution mechanism

Thanks to the timing belt, the air-fuel mixture is supplied and exhaust gases are removed. Its operation is carried out using a chain drive or belt. They transmit torque from the crankshaft to the camshaft.

The shafts must be in a certain position. To do this, special marks are placed on the crankshaft pulley and the camshaft sprocket, which must be set correctly. If the marks do not match, serious problems with the engine may occur, including major engine repairs.

During operation, the chain drive and belt are under constant tension, so after a while the chain gradually stretches - its pitch increases. In this case, the engine begins to idle unstably, the speed begins to fluctuate, and the engine may stall.

If metallic sounds appear when increasing or decreasing speed, this is a sure sign of stretching of the chain drive or wear of the damper. To eliminate these sounds, you need to tighten the chain or replace the damper. Chain drive tensioning should also be done after replacing any timing parts, including the guide rail and shoe.

The chain drive on the VAZ 2107 injector is adjusted using a tensioner, which can be a mechanical, automatic or hydraulic tensioner. To install a hydraulic tensioner on a VAZ 2107, you need to redo the timing belt. Instead of the standard one, an automatic tensioner is often installed; it is more reliable.

Diagram of the gas distribution mechanism

The VAZ 2107 was equipped with engines with a timing belt and chain drive. Although a chain is more reliable than a belt, the design of the drive unit is nevertheless imperfect and requires periodic tensioning, for which a special mechanism is used - a tensioner.

Purpose of the device

The chain tensioner in the power unit performs an important function by monitoring the chain tension in the timing drive. It follows from this that the coincidence of valve timing and stable operation of the engine directly depend on the reliability of this product. When the chain weakens, the damper breaks down. In addition, it can jump over the teeth, causing the valves to hit the pistons, which will lead to engine damage.

Types of tensioners

The timing chain tensioning mechanism comes in several varieties: automatic, hydraulic and mechanical.

Mechanical

In a mechanical type tensioner, the required amount of tension is provided by a plunger spring. Under its influence, the rod comes out of the body and pushes the shoe. The force is transmitted until the chain offers resistance, i.e. it is sufficiently tensioned. In this case, sagging is eliminated. The tensioner is fixed by tightening the cap nut located on the outside. When it is necessary to adjust the tension, the plunger lock nut is unscrewed, as a result of which the spring presses the rod, eliminating sagging of the chain.

Such tensioners have one significant drawback: the device becomes clogged with small particles, which leads to jamming of the plunger. To eliminate this malfunction, tap the tensioner during adjustment. However, you should not make special efforts to avoid damaging the body of the product.

Auto

This type of tensioner has a ratchet design. The product consists of a body, a spring-loaded pawl and a toothed bar. The teeth are made with a slope in one direction in increments of 1 mm. The operating principle of the automatic product is as follows:

The spring of the device acts on the gear bar with a certain force, depending on how much the chain sags.
Through the bar, the force is transmitted to the tensioner shoe.
Backlash is prevented by the ratchet pawl, which provides locking.
The stopper, falling between the teeth, prevents the bar from moving back.

With this principle of operation, there is a constant influence of the spring on the bar responsible for tensioning the chain, and thanks to the ratcheting mechanism, the chain drive is constantly in a tense state.

Hydraulic

Today, hydraulic chain tensioners are used as an alternative in timing systems. For the operation of the part, lubricant from the engine under pressure is used. This allows the required tension to be maintained without the need to manually tension the chain mechanism.

This mechanism has a hole for oil supply. Inside the product there is an adapter device with a ball, which is under high pressure and is regulated by means of a pressure reducing valve. Thanks to the threaded plunger device, the hydraulic tensioner is able to control the condition of the chain even when the engine is turned off.

Tensioner malfunctions

The main problems with the chain tensioner include:

breakdown of the collet mechanism, as a result of which the rod is not fixed and the chain is not tensioned normally;
wear of the spring element;
Damper spring failure;
large wear of the rod near the collet clamp fastening;
Damage to the threads on the mounting studs.

In most cases, if problems arise with the tensioner, the part is replaced with a new one.

Removing the tensioner

The need to remove and replace the mechanism arises when it does not cope with its function. Insufficient chain tension is indicated by a characteristic metallic sound coming from the front of the engine or a knocking sound coming from under the valve covers. It is possible that the tensioner shoe also needs to be replaced. First, let's look at a simpler repair option that does not require replacing the shoe.

How to install roller damper and rockring

First, you need to make sure that the bike frame supports the “calm” setting. To do this, on the right side of the frame, on the carriage assembly, there must be special mounting ears with holes for bolts. If there are any, then the frame supports the installation;
After making sure that installation is possible, it is necessary to remove the crank (connecting rod) from the bicycle frame along with the sprockets from the fastener side, and also dismantle the carriage or carriage cup, if this is possible. For this stage you will need a connecting rod puller, which requires a wrench and a carriage puller, depending on the type of which you may need a wrench;
After this procedure, install the structure according to the mounting holes. It is worth remembering that after installing the carriage stabilizer, the chainline changes, so when installing the carriage in the seat, it is necessary to adjust this indicator using spacer rings. For this step you will need hexagons or a Phillips screwdriver, depending on the type of bolts on the bicycle carriage;
After installing the carriage and adjusting it, you should reinstall the crank with stars. At this stage, the rockring is installed, which is installed instead of or on top of the outermost drive sprocket of the bicycle. In order to put on the rockring, you need to unscrew the bonnets with hexagons (the bolts that secure the front stars together), and then return them to their place;
Next, put the chain on the bike and adjust the “calm down” rollers so that its operation is correct;
Depending on the type of “changeguide” design, the installation of the chain occurs in the assembled or unfastened state, where in the latter it will be necessary to pull the chain through the roller. At this stage, you will need screwdrivers to adjust the rollers and other parts of the damper;
After all installations and final checks have been completed, the chain tension should be checked. To do this, you need to switch from one speed to another, thereby finding out whether it is necessary to lengthen or shorten the length of the chain so that the “calm down” adequately performs its function.

How to correctly replace a chain guide on a VAZ-2107

To correctly carry out the procedure for replacing the timing chain guide, you need to prepare the tools for the job:

Screwdriver Set;
a set of keys;
set of socket heads;
long tweezers (you can use a wire hook instead).

In addition to tools, you will need a new damper, engine head cover gasket and special sealant for cars.

This procedure can be performed independently in a garage. In this case, the following conditions must be observed:

spacious room;
bright lighting;
absence of dust (it should not get on the parts of the gas distribution mechanism when the cover is removed).

The first step is to remove the chain guide. This process consists of several steps (with the car in running mode at neutral speed):

Remove the engine head cover by first unscrewing the eight mounting bolts (note: the gasket must not be damaged, otherwise it will need to be replaced). Align the camshaft sprocket (the mark on it should coincide with the boss on the camshaft housing). Partially unscrew the tensioner cap nut for the timing chain structure (it should be loosened slightly without unscrewing completely). Press the tensioner shoe using a suitable screwdriver to loosen the tensioned timing chain structure. Screw the cap nut into place to secure the chain in the loose position. Hook the tensioner with tweezers or a hook (the hooking tool must be inserted into the technological hole) so that the dismantled part does not fall into the engine oil pan during dismantling. Unscrew the chain guide mounting bolts (there are two of them). Dismantle it.

If the damper breaks, it can be removed with tweezers or a stiff wire hook. If during dismantling this part fell into the engine crankcase pan, it will be necessary to remove this pan to remove the damper.

The second stage is the installation of a new chain guide. The procedure is the reverse of that described above. When performing this, several important points should be taken into account:

Be sure to tension the chain structure to the required level.
The location of the engine shaft marks - crankshaft and camshaft - is monitored.
All seats for bolted fastenings are coated with automotive sealant (this measure is necessary to prevent engine oil from seeping through).

If it is difficult for a car enthusiast to carry out the procedure for replacing the chain guide on his own, he can always seek help from qualified car mechanics at a service center for the repair and maintenance of cars of this model.

TYPES OF CHAIN DRIVE

The VAZ “Seven”, like other “classics”, is equipped with a double-row timing chain. However, there is a single-row chain that, if desired, can be installed on a Zhiguli.

SINGLE ROW CHAIN

A chain drive with one row has less noise when the engine is running compared to two rows. This factor is one of the main factors in favor of choosing single-row chains. Therefore, some VAZ 2107 owners decide to replace the timing drive. The lower noise level is due to the fact that fewer links are driven. Plus, it is easier for the entire engine to rotate such a chain, which has a positive effect on the increase in power. However, due to the low noise level when such a chain is stretched, it is not always clear that the part needs tension.

Single row timing chain has lower noise levels

DOUBLE-ROW CHAIN

Despite the advantages of a single-row chain, a chain drive with two rows is the most common, since it is characterized by high reliability and if a link breaks, the entire chain does not break. In addition, the load on the timing drive parts is distributed evenly, as a result of which the chain and gears wear out more slowly. The life of the part in question exceeds 100 thousand km. Although recently, in order to reduce the weight of power units, automakers have been installing chains with one row.

The double-row chain, despite its higher noise level, has a long service life

REPLACING A DOUBLE-ROW CHAIN WITH A SINGLE-ROW CHAIN

If you are thinking about replacing a double-row chain drive with a single-row one, you will need to purchase the following parts:

crankshaft, camshaft and oil pump gears for single row chain;
sedative;
shoe;
single-row chain;
automatic tensioner.

To install a single row chain, you will need to replace the gears, chain, guide and timing chain tensioner

All of the listed parts are taken, as a rule, from the VAZ 21214. Replacing the chain should not cause difficulties. The only thing that is required is to replace the sprockets, for which you unscrew the corresponding fasteners. Otherwise, the steps are similar to the procedure for replacing a conventional double-row chain.

VIDEO: INSTALLING A SINGLE-ROW CHAIN ON A VAZ

Despite the fact that replacing the timing chain drive on a VAZ 2107 is not an easy process, every owner of a Zhiguli can do it if you follow the step-by-step instructions. The main thing is to correctly set the marks upon completion of the work, which will ensure synchronous operation of the crankshaft and camshaft.

Procedure for tensioning or replacing the timing chain

As the vehicle operates, the timing chain, which operates under high voltages, is gradually stretched. Because of this, the chain pitch may change and the engine begins to operate unstably at idle. Floating speeds appear. It is even possible for the chain to jump several links and then the internal combustion engine will begin to stall. To prevent this, experts recommend periodically adjusting the chain tension. If the driver heard that the VAZ 2107 chain is rattling, this is a sure sign that on the VAZ 2107 chain tension is simply necessary.

How to tension a chain on a VAZ 2107 - this can be done in several ways. Car enthusiasts choose any of them based on experience and time available for work.

To begin with, you need to place the car on level ground and secure the wheels with chocks so that it does not move, and also set the gearshift knob to the “neutral” position. Before starting work, you need to prepare a tool - a wrench for “13” and “36”, sockets for “8” and “10”, pliers and a screwdriver. To gain access to the chain, you need to remove the drive cover by unscrewing the bolts holding it in place.

We tighten the timing chain on the VAZ 2107:

— slightly loosen the chain tensioner located next to the pump;

- using a special wrench or a 36 socket, turn the crankshaft two turns;

— tighten the tensioner until it stops;

— after starting the engine, check the chain tension;

— close the drive cover, tightening all the bolts and nuts well.

If the work done does not bring results and extraneous noise is heard in the drive area, there is another way to tighten the timing chain:

— this requires, in addition to the drive cover, to remove the valve cover from the cylinder head; this frees the camshaft sprocket and the chain tension can be checked manually

- loosen the tensioner slightly

- turn the crankshaft two turns and tighten the tensioner completely

- check the chain tension manually, there should be no sagging in any places, the chain should be elastic

— install the valve cover and the side cover of the drive

Experts know that patience is required when adjusting chain tension. The fact is that the desired result may not be achieved the first time; moreover, this procedure can be done several times until the characteristic ringing in the timing drive area disappears.

In addition, it is necessary to remember that it is necessary to make similar adjustments after any repair work, during which the timing drive was manipulated up to the point of removing the chain.

After such work, mandatory adjustment of the chain drive tension is required. A car enthusiast who owns a VAZ 2107 should have a good idea of how to tension a chain, since a preventive check of its condition should be carried out every 10 thousand mileage:

— first you need to release the pressure in the tensioner and unscrew the nut;

- as soon as the nut is loosened, the tensioner shoe should snap off;

- if this does not happen, then you need to knock on the tensioner, the plunger is probably stuck in it, the shoe should snap off;

- use the key to make two turns of the crankshaft, it should stop itself when it feels the greatest resistance;

- using a wrench to fix the crankshaft in this position, tighten the cap nut;

— having connected the tensioner and checked its fixation, put the cover in place;

- finally, start the engine and check the operation of the drive.

Since the standard engine configuration of the car requires constant monitoring of the timing drive, you can buy and install an automatic VAZ 2107 chain tensioner. The big advantage of installing the ANC is that it does not require an oil line, and the overall drive circuit is simplified. This device itself monitors the tension and adjusts the shoe forces as the chain is pulled.

If, upon inspection of the drive elements, mechanical damage is detected - chips, scuffs or cracks, then replacement of the failed spare part is required. And, as a result, removal or complete replacement of the chain.

When removing the chain, you must remember that before starting all work, the camshaft and crankshaft sprockets must be aligned with the existing marks on the bearing housing and cylinder block. If there is a need to remove the sprockets themselves, then under no circumstances should the shaft rods be turned; to do this, marks must be placed on them in advance.

Why is the device replaced?

With prolonged use, the VAZ 2107 chain tensioner weakens (the spring loses its elasticity), which leads to improper operation of the device. This has a negative impact on the operation of the engine, since the valve timing gradually shifts, which contributes to increased heating and wear of the cylinder-piston group parts.

If it is no longer possible to tension the chain, then it may be time to replace the chain itself or one or both shoes, but perhaps only the VAZ 2107 chain tensioner has become unusable and you can only get by by replacing it, without expensive repairs. In the material we will consider the question of how to replace the chain tensioner on a VAZ 2107 car without affecting the tensioner shoe.

What is required for the work

To replace the tensioner on a VAZ 2107, you will need to use simple tools:

Open-end wrenches for “10” and “13”.
Key for turning the crankshaft.

After making sure that the above tools are available, you can begin work.

How much does a new product cost?

For the VAZ 2107, a tensioner from classic VAZ models is suitable, so you can choose any one that is available on the market. The average cost of this device is 600-700 rubles. Experienced drivers recommend giving preference to devices from the Tolyatti Automobile Plant, which are supplied in blue packaging. The package contains the packer's number, as well as a special sticker with a code underneath. If you send this code to the number, you will receive an SMS message with confirmation.

It is important to know! Purchase products only from certified stores to avoid purchasing counterfeits.

The Pilot brand device is also receiving positive reviews. It has its advantages compared to the standard one, and at the same time it is considered maintenance-free and more reliable. Below is the packaging of the ANC “Pilot”.

Once the Pilot or standard chain tensioner has been purchased, you can proceed to the replacement procedure. The advantage of the “Pilot” is the fact that it is an automatic chain tensioner for the VAZ 2107, which independently regulates and maintains the degree of chain tension on the seven.

Product replacement principle

To replace a worn chain tensioner on a VAZ 2107 with a new one, you will need to perform the following steps:

The physical process of installing a timing chain on a VAZ 2107

The actual procedure for replacing the timing belt with a metal chain does not seem complicated. This process is actually carried out according to the same criteria by which the timing belt is changed. The chain is installed on the same rollers, tensioners and other devices of this unit. The chain size is chosen to be the same as the timing belt size. Everything corresponds to factory parameters, except for one aspect - you are installing an element of the engine system that was not specified by the factory. Moreover, this element is quite important and is one of the most important guarantees of engine safety. The replacement procedure is as follows:

remove the timing belt cover under which the timing belt operates;
remove the belt, lowering the tensioner to the required parameters;
replace all rollers and other mechanisms of the system with those corresponding to the chain
put the previously purchased timing chain in place of the belt;
loosen the cap nut using a 13mm wrench;
Using a crankshaft wrench, turn the pulley several turns;
The pulley should be stopped when it provides maximum resistance;
hold the crankshaft from rotating and tighten the cap nut, put the tensioners in place.

Make sure the chain is properly tensioned and does not have excessive tension. You can regulate the tension process by adjusting the tensioner. There is a special device in the form of an automatic tensioner, which independently adjusts to the operating characteristics of the system. This is a very good purchase for a VAZ 2107 with a timing chain, since the chain can stretch. If you do not notice this stretching in time, the chain may well fly off and cause trouble that will be difficult to fix. Improper installation or poorly thought out parts will cause you to spend a fortune on your car to restore it. Bent engine valves are the simplest thing that can happen to a car when a belt or chain breaks.

Why is it necessary to replace the tensioner?

As the name implies, the function of the device is to tension the timing chain. Since it weakens during prolonged use, its links are stretched. In this case, unstable engine operation appears, the valve timing gradually shifts, and increased heating and wear of the cylinder-piston group parts occurs.

This is indicated by the appearance of a high-pitched ringing sound with a metallic tint from the front side of the engine, in the end part, or a knock from under the valve covers. This can be heard clearly when the engine revs up.

In this case, the chain is tensioned first, since no spare parts are needed for this. However, if it turns out to be ineffective or short-lived, then most likely the tensioner has stopped fixing the chain and needs to be replaced. The tensioner shoe may also need to be replaced.

Let's consider a simpler option for replacing the chain tensioner, which does not require replacing the shoe. Replacing the shoe requires significant preparation work, such as removing the crankcase guard, alternator belt, fan casing, crankshaft pulley, etc.

How to understand that you need to pay attention to the timing assembly

Timing chain problems manifest themselves in a variety of ways.
In some cases, the power unit begins to triple, and in others, at idle you can hear floating speed. In advanced cases, a carburetor or injection VAZ-2107 can simply stall, and some modifications completely fail when the chain jumps. Other symptoms may include:

an increase in temperature in the cylinder-piston group (leads to accelerated wear of its parts);
a metallic ringing sound coming from the front engine cover;
knocking noise from under the valve covers;
Belt tension does not eliminate extraneous noise.

We recommend that you do not delay repairs if you hear the first signs of incorrect engine operation.

Auto mechanics recommend regularly checking the timing belt tension to detect problems at an early stage. You also need to pay attention to the condition of the shoe; if it is worn out, then you should not delay repairs.

Timing phases and when to set them according to marks

Valve timing refers to those moments at which the piston in the engine moves up and down over a certain interval. When irregularities in the valve timing occur, the pistons move incorrectly along the interval, resulting in uneven engine operation on the VAZ-2107.

If the driver notices that the car’s power decreases, fuel consumption increases, and engine interruptions occur, then it is necessary to resort to setting the valve timing according to marks. How to set marks on a VAZ 2107 carburetor and injector, we will learn from this material, since the design of the timing mechanism is identical.

How to set timing timing marks

The procedure involves performing the following manipulations:

The VAZ 2107 needs to be placed on a hard surface, with chocks placed under the wheels and the hand brake pressed all the way. The gear shift lever must be set to neutral mode.
The cover is removed from the cylinder head by first unscrewing all the fixing nuts to “10”. It is better to replace the gasket with a new one, even if the old one shows no signs of damage.
Using a key set to “24”, you need to turn the crankshaft on a VAZ 2107 car. This is done in order to be able to align the marks on the moving and stationary parts of the mechanism. To carry out these actions, it is recommended to use good lighting or use a flashlight. The crankshaft rotates until the mark on the pump and generator drive belt pulley coincides with the long mark marked on the block.
Combining these risks, the mark on the sprocket should eventually coincide with the ebb on the camshaft bed. If the mark ends up at the bottom, then you should rotate the crankshaft 360 degrees.
If you can’t make sure the labels match, then proceed to the next steps, which are described below.
The crankshaft is rotated until the marks on the star and the bed ebb align.
Using the key at “13”, you need to loosen the tensioner. The 2 nuts securing the tensioner are unscrewed, after which this device is removed.
The bolt that secures the sprocket to the camshaft is unscrewed. To do this you will need to use the key at “17”.
The sprocket is removed, after which it must be rotated until the marks on the VAZ-2107 timing belt pulley coincide with the long mark on the block. The star fastening bolt does not need to be unscrewed, since after removing the tensioner the camshaft star rotates.
We put a chain on the sprocket, if it was decided to unscrew it, and install it in place. Finally, the tensioner is installed, for which you should tighten it with 2 nuts to “10”. You can install the tensioner first, but later you will need to use a crowbar or pry bar to get the sprocket into place. Finally, screw the tensioner nut to “13”.

This relative arrangement of the parts allows the piston of the 4th cylinder to be positioned at top dead center TDC.

Features of servicing the timing mechanism

After the timing marks are installed on the VAZ-2107, you need to perform the following actions:

The timing chain of the VAZ-2107 is being tensioned.
Adjusting the valves, or more precisely, the thermal gap between the camshaft cams and the rocker arm.
Setting up the ignition system.

The process of adjusting the valves on the VAZ-2107 is carried out according to the following scheme: initially 6 and 8 valves are adjusted, the report must be carried out from the radiator. After they are adjusted, you need to start adjusting valves 4 and 7, then valves 1 and 3, and finally valves 2 and 5.

How to adjust the valves on a VAZ-2107 car can be found out in more detail in the relevant material on this site. In conclusion, it is worth noting that VAZ-2107 cars are one of the most reliable vehicles, the production of which began back in the 90s.

Annotation on setting up the ignition system of the VAZ 2107 with your own hands

The Zhiguli “classic” VAZ 2107 does not belong to modern cars, manufactured with the latest technology and stuffed with sophisticated electronics. This is its beauty - there is no need to contact car service specialists for any reason; most of the car maintenance work can be done by the owner himself. This also includes the procedure for the ignition option, which anyone can perform, having previously studied the detailed instructions.

Video “Chain Knocking on a Classic”

This video examines the cause of engine knocking and demonstrates chain drive tension.

A VAZ 2107 timing chain tensioner is installed on the front right side of the car engine. The main purpose of such a mechanism is to tension the chain, which in turn is extended during operation.

Replacement work is not difficult and is completed within a short period of time. To replace the tensioner you must:

Open the hood of the car and in the engine compartment, use a ten-point socket wrench to unscrew the two bolts securing the tensioner to the cylinder block and carefully remove it. A sealing gasket will be installed between the tensioner and the block. Check its condition and, if necessary, replace it with a new one.
Having removed the tensioner body, we clamp it in a vice and use a thirteen key to unscrew the central cap nut, thereby checking the serviceability of the collet lock. If a crack is detected, it is necessary to replace the cap or the tensioner itself.

After checking the tensioner and if it needed to be replaced, you can begin installation. Before installing it, the tensioner must be charged; to do this, push the plunger all the way in and, holding it in this state, tighten the cap nut.

I tighten the cap nut, install the tensioner in its place and tighten the bolts that secure it. Then we turn the crankshaft one turn, thereby tightening the camshaft drive chain, after which we release the cap nut, releasing the tensioner, and tighten it again. At this point, the repair work to replace the timing chain tensioner of the VAZ 2107 is completed.

Sometimes a car enthusiast encounters extraneous sounds that come from the area of the front engine cover and resemble a kind of tapping. This may be a sign that the chain guide needs to be replaced. The damper on the VAZ 2107 model is necessary to soften the vibrations of the chain during its rotation. If you can clearly hear a clattering or metallic tapping sound, this means that the damper is very worn and needs to be urgently replaced. Another possible cause of the problem is that the chain tension is too loose. In this car model, the damper is located on the left, in front of the cylinder block. Use the diagram supplied with the machine to determine the exact location of the part to be replaced.

Replacing a chain guide on a VAZ 2107 is not a complicated procedure. Each driver will be able to carry out such an operation independently if he takes into account several important points. When replacing a part yourself, you need to proceed like this.

The long fastening bolt is installed at the top, and the short one at the bottom. If the bolts have a significant degree of wear, they need to be replaced, otherwise even after replacing the damper, the characteristic tapping sound may remain.

Main elements of the timing chain tensioning system

The timing chain in the engine is supported not only by the three sprockets mentioned above. It is supported by several other important devices.

The timing chain tensioning system consists of several critical elements

Let's look at them in more detail.

Timing chain stop pin

The timing chain in the VAZ 2107 engine is supported by a complex tensioning system. One of the elements of this system is the limiting finger. This is a small cylindrical part screwed into the wall of the cylinder block. The pin is located next to the crankshaft sprocket. The purpose of the pin is as follows: if the timing chain tension suddenly weakens, the pin will prevent the chain from jumping off the crankshaft sprocket.

The design of the restrictive pin is extremely simple - it is a regular bolt with a head truncated on the sides

At the same time, the chain will begin to touch the limiter with a characteristic ringing sound, which will certainly attract the driver’s attention, since this sound will be heard even in the cabin. If the chain breaks, the limiter will not allow it to completely fly off the sprocket and break the nearby oil pump and timing shaft sprockets.

If the timing chain is tensioned normally, it does not touch the limiting pin, since in this case there is a constant gap of about 1.5 cm between it and the pin.

About timing chain tensioners

The purpose of the timing chain tensioner is easy to guess from its name. He must constantly tension the chain, preventing it from sagging. If the chain sags by even half a centimeter, it may fly off one of the sprockets (although this happens quite rarely, much more often there are situations when the chain remains on the sprocket, but at the same time jumps several teeth forward, as a result of which the uniformity of its tension is completely disrupted , and the sagging increases even more). At different times, different types of tensioners were installed on the VAZ 2107.

Mechanical tensioners

In a mechanical tensioner, the force required for the tension shoe to press on the chain is created by a conventional spring. It presses on the rod, it moves out of the body and presses on the shoe. And the shoe, in turn, puts pressure on the chain, constantly dampening its vibrations.

The main element of the mechanical tensioner is the plunger spring

The spring in such a tensioner is adjusted with a conventional plunger nut. If the driver needs to tighten the chain a little, he simply tightens the nut slightly, eliminating any slack.

Mechanical tensioners for VAZ 2107 are reliable and simple in design

Automatic tensioners

Automatic tensioners were installed on later models of the VAZ 2107. Unlike mechanical devices, the design of this tensioner includes a toothed bar with a ratchet.

The main element of the automatic timing chain tensioner is a toothed bar

The plunger spring presses on this bar, and the bar transmits this force to the shoe. The ratchet prevents the bar from returning to its original position. This keeps the timing chain tension constant.

Finding automatic tensioners for VAZ 2107 on sale has become increasingly difficult lately.

Hydraulic tensioners

These tensioners were installed in the latest VAZ 2107 models. The main difference between these devices is the principle of their operation. The force in the hydraulic tensioner is created not by a spring, but by oil pressure. It is supplied to the tensioner through a reinforced high-pressure hose.

Oil is supplied to the hydraulic tensioner through a special reinforced hose

Timing chain tensioner

The timing chain tensioner is another indispensable element of the tension system, without which uniform operation of the timing chain is impossible. The damper is a metal plate that is attached to the wall of the cylinder block.

The timing chain adjuster on the “seven” is a simple metal plate held on by two bolts

This plate is located opposite the tensioner, that is, the damper acts on the second half of the chain. Since the tensioner presses the chain very sharply, the opposite side of the chain inevitably begins to vibrate. To dampen this vibration, a damper is needed. The chain, touching the damper plate, loses some of its energy and the amplitude of its oscillations decreases significantly. Without the restraining effect of the guide, the chain will stretch much faster.

Signs of a poorly adjusted chain

When they talk about a poorly adjusted chain, they usually mean a loose and sagging chain. Because a highly tensioned chain does not show any signs of breakage. She's just bursting. Here are the main signs that the timing chain has become loose:

after starting the engine, a loud grinding and knocking noise is heard from under the hood, the frequency of which increases as the crankshaft speed increases. This occurs due to the fact that the slack chain continuously hits the damper and the tension shoe;
the car reacts poorly to pressing the gas pedal: the engine begins to increase speed only one or two seconds after pressing. This is due to the fact that due to a sagging chain, the synchronism of rotation of the timing shaft and the crankshaft is disrupted;
There are power failures in engine operation. Moreover, they can occur both when accelerating and when the engine is idling. Due to the desynchronization of the shafts, which was mentioned above, the operation of the cylinders in the engine is also disrupted. In this case, one cylinder either does not work at all, or works, but not at full strength;
increase in fuel consumption. If the cylinder block is not working properly, this cannot but affect fuel consumption. It can increase by a third, and in especially severe cases - double.

If the driver notices one or more of the above signs, this only means one thing: it’s time to remove the timing chain and check for wear. If it turns out to be very worn, it will have to be replaced. If the wear is minor, the chain can simply be tightened slightly.

VAZ 2107 TIMING CHAIN ​​DRIVE - DESCRIPTION