i just got a ka24de swapped in my 240.
the next day we start it up and hear this ticking. then i remember about the timing chain guides being a problem with the kas. so this morning i take off the valve cover and this is what i see..



so am i basically fucked and need a new engine?

 

no take the bolts piece out. and go hunting for the other piece. If it doesn't run then yes you need a new engine.

 

it might not be dead. you might actually get lucky and find it hanging out around the lower timing cover.... its gonna take some time and effort taking things apart to try and find it.
good luck

 

My brother has the same noise and we found the same thing when we took the valve cover off. Anyone know of any good write up with a step by step to removing the cover?

 

HOW-TO: Fix Your Timing Chain Rattle: Nissan Articles: Nissan Infiniti Forums - NICOclub

 

yup my friend had the same problem, just take the oil pan and valve cover off, you should find it eventually lol, and inspect for damage if u find it lower than the head. if nothing pull the piece out and ur golden. also it might be a good idea to take off the top timing cover and remove the guide on the right side of the chain. tends to happen with that too

 

no, dont take the right guide off, that ones there for a reason

 

take the top guide off it dosen't matter,I had that off my motor sence 98