Timing chain replacement: Saab 9-3 B2x4 5 (B205E, B205E/TK, B205L, B205R, …)

🧭 Before you start

Fits: platform codes 2.0, T, |, 2.3, SI, VIGGEN, 2.3I, 16V, TURBO, CS, AERO

• Timing position: the crankshaft or camshaft is set and locked during this job

🔧 Engine codes this applies to

📐 78 workshop diagrams for B205E

Real factory drawings for this job — timing marks, bolt locations and routing. Locked in the free view.

📋 Procedure

Preparation and removal

1. Before disconnecting the battery cable, check the audio system security code
2. Use a timing chain assembly link
3. Timing chain separating tools:
4. Timing chain layout
5. Note: Avoid bending, torsion or traction

6. Note: Temporarily tie the chain to the cylinder head
7. Remove the spark plugs
8. Disconnect the crankcase breather hose from the valve cover
9. Use a timing chain assembly link
10. Remove the cable ties
11. Turn the engine clockwise
12. Align the timing marks
13. Unscrew the end-piece
14. Separate the timing chain
15. Note: Cover the timing chain housing with a clean cloth
16. Use the special tools to remove the timing chain pins

Installation and checks

17. Connect the ends of the new chain
18. Use the special tools
19. Check the chain guides
20. Secure the chain
21. Note: Temporarily tie the chain to the cylinder head
22. Remove the timing chain holding tool
23. Remove the cloth
24. Fit the chain tensioner
25. Renew the seals
26. Tighten the tensioner body
27. Apply sealant
28. Refit the chain tensioner plug with the push rod and spring
29. Rotate the crankshaft clockwise by 2 turns
30. Check the camshaft timing marks
31. Check the crankshaft timing marks
32. Refit the camshaft cover
33. Tighten the bolts
34. In the order shown
35. Refit the spark plugs
36. Fit the ignition module and cover
37. Reconnect the crankcase breather hose
38. Reconnect the boost pressure control valve
39. Raise the front of the vehicle
40. Refit the front right splash guard
41. Refit the front right wheel
42. Lower the vehicle
43. Refit the engine upper cover
44. Reconnect the battery earth cable

Other SAAB procedures

• Saab 9-5 B2x5 timing chain replacement
• Saab 9-3 2.2 TiD D223L timing chain replacement
• Saab 9-3 B204 2.0 timing chain replacement
• Saab 9-3 B207 2.0 timing chain replacement
• Saab 9-3 1.8 Z18XE auxiliary belt replacement
• Saab 9-3 1.9 TiD Z19DT timing belt replacement
• Saab 9-3 1.9 TiD Z19DTH timing belt replacement
• 9-5 Z19DTH
• 9-3 Z19DTR