ive got a 6 speed with 90k on it. i know i need to go ahead and replace my valve cover gaskets (smell the oil burning).. someone told me i should replace the timing chain.. water pump.. etc. is this preventive maintenance or can i wait until it fails completely? also.. i hear alot of grumbling.. knocking sounds on my front end whenever i hit small bumps. i know its hard to diagnose w/o being next to a car..

 

Time to spend some money! You DO NOT want to wait until the timing belt fails as that will bend your valves. In addition to the valve cover gaskets, you will need the cam chain tensioner gaskets and the spyder pipe to resolve the burning oil smell issue. You are also going to need new control arms and tie rod ends. Do you do your own work? If not, ouch!

Bob

 

It's not that bad -- a full TB job with all the parts should set you back about $1000 at a good indie and $1500 at the dealer. Not sure about the other gaskets, it depends on whether they are leaking or you believe in that level of preventive maintenance. I never had the gaskets changed and I have no leaks at 128k miles. Suspension is original and tight.