Answer
Mar 31, 2025 - 01:36 AM
Ah, the 3.6L Pentastar in the 2013 Chrysler 200 is a bit of a puzzle when it comes to timing chain work, but the manual does walk you through the full process in detail — removal, replacement, torque specs, and all the timing marks.
To start, you’ll need to pull a bunch of stuff out of the way: upper intake manifold, serpentine belt, water pump pulley, and front engine accessories. You’ll also need to drain the coolant and remove the valve covers before you even get to the timing cover. Once those are off, there’s a specific procedure to remove the timing chain cover. It’s sealed up tight with RTV, so you’ll need to gently pry it loose after pulling all the bolts.
Once you’re in, there are three chains total (one primary and two secondary) and they each have specific alignment marks on the crank and cam phasers. The manual will show you how to line them up using colored links and timing marks on the gears. You’ll need a camshaft locking tool kit to keep everything in place, especially during reassembly.
New chains, guides, and tensioners are needed (I don’t recommend trying to reuse anything in there). And when you're torquing everything back down, be sure to follow the sequence and torque-to-yield specs from the manual, especially for the timing cover and cam bolts.
It’s a big job, but totally doable if you take your time and follow the manual closely 😉
