Replacement of the HRM chain on the ŠKODA Roomster 1.6: when to change, how to do it correctly and what mistakes to avoid

Timing chain (timing chain) in Škoda Roomster with engine 1.6 MPI (BSE/BSF) or 1.6 MPI-A (CWVA) - a critical element, the condition of which determines the performance of the entire power unit. Unlike a belt drive, a chain is considered more reliable, but it also has a limited resource. Missing the moment of replacement can result in bending valves, damage to pistons and overhaul of the engine cost from 150 000 rubles.

In this article we will look at exactly when it is necessary to replace the timing chain with Roomster 1.6What signs indicate wear, what set of spare parts to choose and how to work independently - taking into account all the "pitfalls" characteristic of this engine. Also, we will give current prices for service stations and compare the original details with analogues.

When to change the chain of the gas register to the ŠKODA Roomster 1.6: regulations and signs of wear

Official regulations Volkswagen Group (which refers to Škoda) provides for replacement of the engine's HRM chain 1.6 MPI every 120–150 thousand km. However, this interval is relevant only for ideal operating conditions: high-quality oil, lack of overheating and timely maintenance. In the realities of Russian roads and climate, the resource chain is often reduced to 90–110 thousand km.

Key signs that the chain needs replacement:

• 🔊 Noise from the timing system - metal clanking or "rustle" on a cold engine, which may disappear after warming up (indicates the stretching of the chain).
• 📉 Floating speed at idling or failures during acceleration (related to violation of gas distribution phases).
• ⚠️ Error P0016 ("The discrepancy of the phases of the camshaft and the crankshaft") is a frequent companion of the stretched chain.
• 🛢️ Metal shavings in oil (seen on the probe or in the pallet) - a sign of critical wear of the chain or tensioner.

Engine Features BSE/BSF and CWVA - they flex when the chain breaks (unlike turbochargers) TSI). However, a stretched chain can jump 1-2 teeth, which will lead to loss of power, increased fuel consumption and the risk of damage to the piston group.

⚠️ Attention! If the probe appeared particles of aluminum (silver plaque), this may indicate wear not only of the chain, but also squirrel-shoes. In this case, a full audit of the DRM is required.

Which chain to choose: original vs analogues

For Škoda Roomster 1.6 Two types of chains are suitable:

• 🔗 Single-row chain - is installed on the engines BSE/BSF (until 2010).
• 🔗🔗 Two-row chain - for motors CWVA (after 2010).

Original spare parts from Škoda/VW have articles:

Detail	Article	Approximate price, rubles	Note
timing chain (single-row)	03C109158A	4 500–6 000	For BSE/BSF
timing chain (two-row)	03C109158H	7 000–9 000	For CWVA
timing system kit (chain + shoes + tensioner)	03C109171K	12 000–15 000	Full replacement kit
Chain tensioner	03C109507C	2 500–3 500	Often fails before the chain

Among the analogues, the following have proven themselves well:

• 🔧 INA - article number 530053610 (set), the price is ~8000 rubles. German quality, often used in the service.
• 🔧 Contitech - article number CT1157K1The price is ~9,500 rubles. There are reinforced shoes in the kit.
• 🔧 Febi - article number 22626, the price is ~7,000 rubles. Budgetary, but reliable.

⚠️ Attention! When buying a set of timing system, be sure to check the availability chain-sedator (article 03C109469A). It is often “forgotten” to include in the kit, although it is critical for silent operation.

Tools and preparation for replacing the timing chain

For self-replacement of the timing chain Roomster 1.6 you will need:

• 🔧 Special fasteners for the knee and camshaft (article) T10060A for VW/Škoda).
• 🔧 Torque wrench (Putting the bolt of the knee-shaft pulley) 90 Nm + 90°).
• 🔧 Crankshaft pulley puller (can be rented).
• 🔧 Set of sockets and extensions (including E14 for oil drains.
• 🔧 Sealant for timing cover (for example, Loctite 574).

Also prepare:

• 📋 New motor oil (5W-30 or 5W-40) 4.5 l) and oil filter (03C115561H).
• 📋 Laying of the valve cover (03C103483AIt is recommended to change it with the chain.
• 📋 Carburettor cleaner or kerosene for washing parts.

Before starting work:

Pour oil and antifreeze (partially)| Disconnect battery |Remove right front wheel and underwing |Remove engine on lift or jack |Prepare clean workplace (chain can not be dropped on dirt!)->

If you do not have experience with the timing system, practice on the removed lid - disassemble the tensioner mechanism and see how the chain goes. This will help to avoid errors in the assembly.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the timing chain

The process of replacing the chain with Roomster 1.6 takes 6–8 hours (excluding interruptions). Follow the algorithm:

Step 1. Dismantling the old chain

1. Remove decorative engine cover, duct and throttle assembly.
2. Unscrew 6 timing cover bolts (head T30) and take it off. Be careful - there may be remnants of sealant under the cover.
3. Lock the crankshaft in the VMT (top dead point) with a fixator T10060A. To do this:

1. Unscrew the spark plug of the 1st cylinder.
2. Turn the crankshaft clockwise until the marks on the pulley and the block match.
3. Insert the retainer into the hole on the block (next to the starter).

4. Remove the pulley of the crankshaft (requires a detachable) and turn the bolt of the mounting (requires a removable).90 Nm).
5. Relax the chain tensioner (turn the bolt away) E10 - On the tensioner, and remove the chain from the stars.

Step 2: Install a new chain

6. Check status squirrel. If you have teeth, replace them (articles: 03C109257A for crankshaft, 03C109258A for camshafts).
7. Install new ones tensioner and tranquilizer (they come in kit).
8. Put the new chain on the stars, observing the labels:

- The mark on the chain (usually an orange or red link) must match the mark on the intake camshaft sprocket.
- The crankshaft must remain at TDC (we do not remove the lock!).

9. Install a new tensioner and tighten its bolt in a moment 20 Nm.
10. Turn the crankshaft to 2 turns clockwise and make sure the marks match. If not, reinstall the chain.

Step 3. Assembly

11. Apply the sealant on the timing system cover and install it, tightening the bolts cross-to-cross in the moment. 10 Nm.
12. Set the pulley of the crankshaft and tighten the bolt in two stages: 90 Nm + 90°.
13. Pour in new oil and antifreeze, start the engine and check for no extraneous noise.

Common errors in replacing the timing chain

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes that lead to re-repair or engine breakdown. Here's what not to do:

• 🚫 Ignore the tags If the circuit is installed with a displacement, the engine will triple or not start.
• 🚫 Don't change the tensioner The old tensioner may not provide the necessary force, and the chain will stretch again.
• 🚫 Pulling the bolt of a kneeshaft pulley This leads to the deformation of the thread or the break of the bolt.
• 🚫 Use old shoes They wear out with the chain and can split.
• 🚫 Don't check the stars. Worn teeth lead to slipping of the chain.

A typical situation: after the replacement of the chain, owners complain about the cold-start. The reason is misstated. tranquilizer or insufficient chain tension. Solution: remove the lid of the timing system and recheck the installation.

What happens if you jump the chain to 1 tooth?

When shifting to 1 tooth, the engine will work intermittently, light up Check EngineThere'll be a mistake. P0016. On motors BSE/BSF This will not lead to flexion of the valves, but the power will fall by 20-30%, and fuel consumption will increase by 1-2 liters. If the chain jumps 2-3 teeth, the risk of damage to pistons and valves increases significantly.

How much does it cost to replace the chain with a slur?

The cost of work varies depending on the region and level of service:

Service station type	Cost of work, rubles	Cost of spare parts, rubles	Total, rubles
Official dealer Škoda	18 000–25 000	15,000–20,000 (original)	33 000–45 000
Specialized service VW/Škoda	12 000–18 000	8,000–12,000 (analogues)	20 000–30 000
Garage craftsmen	8 000–12 000	6 000–10 000	14 000–22 000

Savings on spare parts can result in repeated repairs. For example, cheap chains from no-name- Brands are stretching through 30–40 thousand kmAnd the low-quality tensioners flow and do not hold the pressure.

Frequent questions about replacing the chain with the Škoda Roomster 1.6

Is it possible to drive with a stretched chain?

In the short term, yes, but it is not worth the risk. The stretched chain can jump on several teeth, which will lead to disruption of the gas distribution phases. At best, the engine will triple, at worst - you will need to repair the head of the block. At the first signs of wear (noise, errors) the chain must be replaced within a period of time. 1–2 weeks.

Do I need to change the pump when replacing the chain?

On engines 1.6 MPI the pump is driven generator-beltIt is not a chain of timing system, so its replacement is not necessary. However, if the vehicle’s mileage exceeds 150 thousand kmIt is recommended to check the state of the pump and, if necessary, replace it with the generator belt.

How do you check if the chain is stretched?

The most accurate way is to measure. strainer-flight:

1. Remove the lid on the GRW.
2. Then, let the squirrels loose and measure how far they are. 6–8 mm).
3. If the departure exceeds 10 mm, the chain is to be replaced.

You can also use a diagnostic scanner to check. pre-camshaft (tolerance - ± 5°).

What is the difference between BSE and CWVA?

Main differences:

• BSE/BSF (until 2010) - single-row chain, a simpler design of the tensioner.
• CWVA (after 2010) - a two-row chain, reinforced shoes, another tension algorithm.

Chains not interchangeable! By setting up a chain BSE on CWVAYou are at risk of slipping and noise.

How long does the chain last after replacement?

When properly installed and used, quality oil (e.g., Liqui Moly 5W-40 or Motul 8100 X-Clean) the new chain will serve 120–150 thousand km. The time limit shall be reduced if:

• The engine often runs on the idle speed (taxis, traffic jams)
• The oil changes less often than every other 10 thousand km.
• Cheap oil or fakes are used.