RIDEX 1389T2721 Engine Timing Chain Kit
Replacement RIDEX timing-chain kit for Mazda MX-5 Mk3/NC 1.8 and 2.0-litre petrol models, plus selected Mazda 3, Mazda 5 and Mazda 6 MZR petrol applications listed in the compatibility table.
The timing chain synchronises rotation of the crankshaft and camshafts so the engine valves open and close at the correct point in each combustion cycle. The associated secondary chain drives the engine oil pump, maintaining the mechanical relationship between the crankshaft and lubrication system.
This kit uses a two-chain arrangement comprising a 134-link main timing chain and a 54-link secondary chain. It is supplied as a timing-system kit with the corresponding guides, tensioning components and sprockets included in the physical package.
Common reasons for replacement include chain rattle during cold starting, persistent timing-cover noise, camshaft-to-crankshaft correlation fault codes, excessive chain elongation, damaged guides, weak tensioners or contamination and wear discovered during engine repair.
- Part type: Complete engine timing-chain kit
- Primary use: Synchronises the crankshaft and camshafts and drives the engine oil pump
- Location: Front timing-cover area of the engine
- Number of chains: 2
- Main timing chain: 134 links
- Secondary chain: 54 links
- Chain construction: Closed chain
- Chain design: Duplex / silent chain
- Driven components: Camshafts and oil pump
- Approximate RIDEX catalogue weight: 2.296 kg
- EAN: 4066016833670
- Quantity per vehicle: 1 complete kit
- Quantity supplied: 1 kit
- Brand: RIDEX
- Part No.: 1389T2721
- Designed as an aftermarket replacement for the applications listed in the compatibility table
Fitment advice: This kit corresponds with Mazda timing-chain reference LF01-12-201. RIDEX catalogue data directly lists the Mazda MX-5 NC 1.8, while Mazda parts data associates LF01-12-201 most clearly with the 2.0-litre MX-5 NC. Before installation, compare the original chain lengths, guides, sprockets and tensioner arrangement with the replacement kit. Later SKYACTIV engines and earlier MX-5 B-series engines are not included.
Other items to consider: When changing this part, you may also want to consider purchasing a timing-cover gasket or suitable sealant, front crankshaft oil seal, camshaft seals, crankshaft pulley bolt, rocker-cover gasket, engine oil, oil filter, sump-plug washer, oil-pump pickup seals and any single-use timing or engine-mounting bolts specified by Mazda.
Useful tools / consumables: Vehicle lift or trolley jack and axle stands, engine-support equipment, socket and spanner set, torque wrench, crankshaft-pulley holding tool, pulley puller, engine-timing tools, seal-removal and installation tools, gasket scraper, assembly lubricant, suitable RTV sealant and clean engine oil.
Difficulty guide: DIY Difficulty: Advanced. Replacement requires removal of multiple front-engine components, accurate positioning of the crankshaft and camshafts and careful resealing of the timing cover. Incorrect valve timing can prevent the engine from starting or cause serious internal engine damage.
Why RIDEX? RIDEX parts are aftermarket replacement components designed to provide a cost-effective repair option for everyday vehicle maintenance and refurbishment. They are intended to replace the original component on the applications listed, helping restore function while keeping repair costs sensible.
What’s in the box: One RIDEX timing-chain kit containing the 134-link and 54-link chains and the corresponding timing guides, tensioning components and sprockets physically supplied with the kit. Gaskets, seals and single-use engine bolts should not be assumed included unless present in the package.
Installation notes: Allow the engine to cool, disconnect the battery and support the engine correctly before removing any engine mount or front-cover component. Set the engine to the specified timing position and mark or lock the crankshaft and camshafts using the appropriate procedure. Remove the timing cover and inspect the original chains, sprockets, guides, tensioners and oil-pump drive components for abnormal wear or damage. Clean all sealing surfaces and oil passages thoroughly. Install the new components in their specified positions, align all timing marks and release the tensioner only when the chain and guides are correctly seated. Rotate the engine manually through at least two complete crankshaft revolutions and recheck all timing marks before refitting the cover. Apply sealant only in the specified locations and tighten all timing, pulley, mounting and cover fixings to the applicable vehicle specifications. Refill or renew the engine oil and filter where required, build oil pressure and check carefully for abnormal noise, oil leaks or fault codes after starting.
| Make | Model | Sub Variant | Chassis / Code | Years | Power (PS) | Engine Codes | Fuel | Transmission | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda | MX-5 Mk3 / NC | 1.8 | NC18 | 2005–2009 | 126 | L8-VE / L831 | Petrol | 5-speed manual | Catalogue-confirmed application; compare original kit |
| Mazda | MX-5 Mk3 / NC | 2.0 | NC18 | 2005–2009 | 160 | LF-VE | Petrol | 5-speed manual / 6-speed manual / automatic | LF01-12-201 reference application |
| Mazda | MX-5 Mk3.5 / NC | 1.8 | NC18 | 2009–2012 | 126 | L8-VE / L831 | Petrol | 5-speed manual | Confirm chain arrangement and original reference |
| Mazda | MX-5 Mk3.5 / NC | 2.0 | NC18 | 2009–2012 | 160 | LF-VE | Petrol | 5-speed manual / 6-speed manual / automatic | Confirm original reference before installation |
| Mazda | MX-5 Mk3.75 / NC | 1.8 | NC18 | 2012–2015 | 126 | L8-VE / L831 | Petrol | 5-speed manual | Supplier catalogue ends during this production period |
| Mazda | MX-5 Mk3.75 / NC | 2.0 | NC18 | 2012–2015 | 160 | LF-VE | Petrol | 5-speed manual / 6-speed manual / automatic | Confirm LF01-12-201 and kit layout |
| Mazda | Mazda 3 | Selected 1.8 / 2.0 petrol | BK | 2003–2009 | 120–150 | L8 / LF-series | Petrol | Manual / automatic | Selected MZR applications; match Mazda reference |
| Mazda | Mazda 5 | Selected 1.8 / 2.0 petrol | CR19 | 2005–2010 | 115–146 | L8 / LF-series | Petrol | Manual / automatic | Selected MZR applications |
| Mazda | Mazda 6 | Saloon / Hatchback / Estate | GG / GY / GH | 2002–2013 | 120–147 | L8 / LF-series | Petrol | Manual / automatic | Selected applications; match LF01-12-201 |
| Vehicle Manufacturer | OEM Reference Number |
|---|---|
| Mazda | LF01-12-201 |
| Mazda | LF01-12-201 S1 |