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Rick, I looked into it with mine. Purchased all of the updated parts and a few tools. Once I removed the valve cover and seen how much of the timing chain guide was missing, I know I would have to pull the oil pan (no easy feat on a awd car). Additionally I decided to run a leak down test to see if any of the valves were bent. Sure enough, cyl 1 had bent intake valves at a minimum. Then I was going to dig further by pulling the head, changing valves etc... and realized a low mileage engine is a much better option. Found an engine for $2K with under 50k miles. Changing an engine is not easy on these cars, but they are out there. I have a fair amount of auto experience and tools to do it.
Your mileage may vary with changing the timing gear, but if you have to pull the pan (integral part of the whole assembly) Its easier to pull the engine. Wish it were easier, but just not the way these engines are designed.
good luck with it,
Mike
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