Timing chain and sprockets — inspection and tidying (Peugeot 305)

1. Inspect the teeth of both sprockets for wear. The tooth is shaped like an inverted letter "V" and when worn, one side of the tooth becomes more concave than the other. Heavily worn teeth take on a hook-like shape, in which case the sprocket must be replaced.

2. If the sprocket is heavily worn, the chain is likely to be worn out as well and should be replaced. If the sprocket is in good condition, inspect the chain and check for play between its sprocket. If you hold the chain horizontally so that the connecting pins should not sag perceptibly. The more deflection the chain has, the more worn it is. In any case, it is recommended to replace the chain after the engine has been overhauled.

3. Inspect the chain tensioner plate for grooves. In case of obvious defects, the plate should be replaced. It is recommended not to disassemble the tensioner, as its assembly is fraught with certain difficulties.