AFAIK, the 2.6 carb motor is not an interference motor. I'm sure the 2.6T is not. Unless the pistons are not stock. Sorry, been a while since my head was in 2.6 mode.

With that many miles, could the guide bolt have worked loose, letting the guide rattle and fatigue break the bolt? Might loctite that bugger back in there.


Not responsible for advice not taken...