engine
Timing Chain Tensioner
for 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo · AWD
Difficulty
Expert
Time
4.5 h
Tools
14
Steps
14
✓Fact-checked. Built from OLP's spec database, then independently fact-checked line by line with every correction applied. Master-tech sign-off by Chris Hackleman is queued. Cross-check torque values against the factory manual, and stop if anything looks unsafe. How our data is made.
Replace the timing chain tensioner on the 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo engine to restore proper timing chain tension and eliminate timing-related noise or performance issues.
Warnings
⚠️This engine uses interference timing. Incorrect timing will cause catastrophic valve-to-piston contact and engine damage.
⚠️Never rotate the engine without timing pins/locks installed once timing components are loosened.
⚠The crankshaft pulley bolt requires significant torque. Ensure proper holding tool is engaged before loosening or tightening.
⚠RTV silicone must cure for at least 30 minutes before adding fluids. Follow manufacturer cure time specifications.
ℹ️This procedure covers one bank. The V6 has two timing chain tensioners (one per bank). Verify which bank requires service.
Tools required
Camshaft locking toolEssential
Crankshaft holding toolEssential
Torque wrench (10-200 Nm range)Essential
Socket set (metric, 8mm-19mm)Essential
T30, T40, T50 Torx bitsEssential
Gasket scraper (plastic)Essential
Engine support bar or hoistEssential
Oil drain panEssential
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Parts
- Timing chain tensioner (primary) × 1 — Use OEM Maserati specification
- Timing cover gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Valve cover gasket set × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Crankshaft front seal × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Engine oil × 1 — Selenia Racing 10W-60
- Oil filter × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Coolant × 1 — Maserati OAT Coolant
As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.
Fluids
- Selenia Racing 10W-60 — 5.5 qt
- Maserati OAT Coolant — 2 qt
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level surface and allow engine to cool completely (minimum 2 hours)
- Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 10 minutes for system discharge
- Raise and securely support front of vehicle on jack stands
- Remove engine under-cover panels and lower splash shields
- Drain engine oil completely and remove oil filter
- Drain coolant from radiator and engine block into appropriate containers
- Remove front wheels for access to front engine components
- Document all connector positions and routing with photos for reference
Procedure
- 1Remove accessory drive componentsRemove the serpentine belt by releasing the tensioner. Remove the belt routing diagram label if present and photograph routing. Remove the idler pulleys and belt tensioner assembly. Disconnect electrical connectors from alternator and other front-mounted accessories as needed for clearance.Torque specMounting Bolts50 Nm (37 lb-ft)Electrical Connector Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
- 2Remove crankshaft pulleyInstall crankshaft holding tool to prevent rotation. Using a breaker bar, loosen the crankshaft pulley bolt (clockwise thread). Remove the bolt completely and pull the harmonic balancer/crankshaft pulley from the crankshaft snout. Inspect the pulley keyway and crankshaft nose for damage.⚠The crankshaft pulley bolt is very tight. Ensure holding tool is properly engaged to prevent crankshaft rotation.Torque specCrankshaft Pulley Bolt185 Nm (137 lb-ft)
- 3Remove valve covers and upper timing componentsDisconnect ignition coil connectors and remove coils from cylinder head. Remove PCV valve and breather hoses. Remove valve cover bolts in reverse of tightening sequence and carefully lift valve cover. Disconnect variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid connectors. Remove any sensors or brackets mounted to timing cover.Torque specCover Bolts18 Nm (13 lb-ft)Mounting Bolts50 Nm (37 lb-ft)
- 4Support engine and remove mounting bracketInstall engine support bar across engine bay or attach hoist to engine lift points. Remove the right-side engine mount and bracket assembly that obstructs timing cover access. Support engine weight to prevent movement during timing cover removal.Torque specMounting Bolts50 Nm (37 lb-ft)
- 5Remove timing coverRemove all timing cover bolts, noting the different lengths and locations. There are both 6mm and 8mm bolts in specific positions. Carefully separate timing cover from engine block using plastic wedges if needed. Do not pry against sealing surfaces. Remove timing cover and old gasket material.⚠Note bolt locations carefully as different length bolts are used in specific positions. Mixing bolt positions can cause damage.Torque specCover Bolts18 Nm (13 lb-ft)
- 6Rotate engine to TDC and lock timingRotate crankshaft clockwise (using crankshaft bolt location) until cylinder 1 is at TDC compression stroke. Verify timing marks on crankshaft gear and camshaft sprockets align with their respective marks. Install crankshaft timing pin through block into crankshaft. Install camshaft locking tool across both camshafts of the affected bank.⚠️Timing pins must be fully engaged before proceeding. Verify all timing marks are correctly aligned before installing locking tools.
- 7Remove timing chain guide and old tensionerRemove the timing chain guide bolts and carefully remove the guide. Note the orientation and position. Remove the timing chain tensioner bolt and extract the old tensioner assembly. Inspect the timing chain for wear, stretching, or damaged links. Check chain guides for excessive wear grooves.ℹ️If chain shows significant wear or stretch beyond specifications, full timing chain replacement is recommended.Torque specGuide Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)Tensioner Bolt21 Nm (16 lb-ft)
- 8Prepare and install new tensionerCompress the new timing chain tensioner using the compression tool or bench vise. Insert the tensioner locking pin or clip to hold it in compressed position. Apply a small amount of clean engine oil to the tensioner plunger. Position the new tensioner in the engine block, ensuring proper alignment with the mounting hole and chain guide path.⚠The tensioner must remain compressed with pin installed until after it is bolted in place and chain guides are installed.Torque specTensioner Bolt21 Nm (16 lb-ft)
- 9Install timing chain guide and release tensionerReinstall the timing chain guide in its original position, ensuring it seats properly against the timing chain. Tighten guide bolts to specification. Verify timing pins and locks are still properly engaged. Carefully remove the tensioner locking pin or clip to allow the tensioner to apply pressure to the chain. Verify tensioner plunger extends smoothly.Torque specGuide Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
- 10Verify timing and remove locking toolsDouble-check all timing marks still align correctly with tensioner installed and pressurized. Remove camshaft locking tool and crankshaft timing pin. Manually rotate engine two complete revolutions clockwise using crankshaft. Reinstall timing pins at TDC to verify timing marks still align perfectly. If marks do not align, repeat timing procedure.⚠️If timing marks do not realign after two rotations, do NOT start engine. Disassemble and verify timing chain installation.
- 11Prepare and install timing coverClean all old gasket material from timing cover and engine block mating surfaces using plastic scraper. Ensure surfaces are completely clean and dry. Apply RTV silicone sealant to specified areas of engine block (typically corners and oil passage transitions). Install new timing cover gasket. Position timing cover and install all bolts finger-tight, ensuring proper alignment.⚠Tighten timing cover bolts in specified sequence from center outward. Do not overtighten as cover may warp.Torque specCover Bolts18 Nm (13 lb-ft)
- 12Install crankshaft pulley and accessoriesInstall new crankshaft front seal if removed or if showing wear. Install crankshaft pulley onto crankshaft, ensuring keyway aligns properly. Install and hand-tighten crankshaft pulley bolt. Use holding tool and torque crankshaft pulley bolt to specification. Reinstall accessory brackets, belt tensioner, and idler pulleys to specification.Torque specCrankshaft Pulley Bolt185 Nm (137 lb-ft)Mounting Bolts50 Nm (37 lb-ft)
- 13Reinstall valve covers and engine componentsInstall new valve cover gaskets. Clean valve cover mating surfaces thoroughly. Position valve covers and install bolts hand-tight. Tighten valve cover bolts in proper sequence from center outward. Reinstall ignition coils, VVT solenoids, and all sensors with new O-rings where applicable. Reconnect all electrical connectors.Torque specCover Bolts18 Nm (13 lb-ft)Mounting Bolts50 Nm (37 lb-ft)Electrical Connector Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
- 14Reinstall engine mount and accessoriesReinstall engine mount bracket and secure to engine and chassis. Remove engine support tool. Reinstall serpentine belt following documented routing. Install new oil filter and fill engine with specified oil quantity. Refill cooling system with Maserati OAT coolant. Reinstall under-covers and wheels.Torque specMounting Bolts50 Nm (37 lb-ft)
Reassembly
- Allow RTV sealant to cure for minimum 30 minutes before filling fluids
- Bleed cooling system following Maserati procedure to remove air pockets
- Reconnect battery negative terminal and reset any stored fault codes
- Prime oil system by cranking engine without starting (disable fuel or ignition) for 10-15 seconds
Verification
- Start engine and verify no oil or coolant leaks from timing cover or valve covers
- Listen for abnormal timing chain noise during startup and idle - should be quiet and smooth
- Monitor oil pressure gauge to confirm proper pressure within 5 seconds of startup
- Allow engine to reach operating temperature and verify no leaks under pressure
- Road test vehicle and verify smooth acceleration with no timing-related misfires or hesitation
- Scan for diagnostic trouble codes and verify no timing-related faults are present
- Recheck fluid levels after test drive and top off as necessary
Related trouble codes on this vehicle
Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.
P0011Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1P0012Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1P0021Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 2P0022Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 2P0149Fuel Timing ErrorP0216Injection Timing Control CircuitP0370Timing Reference High Resolution Signal A MalfunctionP0371Timing Reference High Resolution Signal A Too Many PulsesP0785Shift/Timing Solenoid MalfunctionP0786Shift/Timing Solenoid Range/PerformanceP3019Continuous Variable Valve Timing Control Exceeded Learning LimitP3020CVT Belt/Chain Slip Detected
Chasing one of these codes and not sure which part is guilty? Ask a master mechanic about YOUR car →