Timing Chain I need to replace the timing chain on a 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix V6 engine, Automatic Transmission

that's easy but no VIN told that tells what engine is there.
two V6's
cam timing,
3.1L and 3.4L
(3.1L pure chain and push rod valve.)
in the block cam
then
3.4L is LQ1 , RPO code engine Twin Dual Cam
1996 ,= engine an interference design (never ignore the belted cams.
this engine is both chain and belt, LQ1
so learn what is under the hood or read the RPO
and tell what you own
or in the case if LQ1, google it and read all day long

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Motors_60%C2%B0_V6_engine#LQ1

Your timing chain should last long as the engine,shouldn't need replacing.

All gm V-6 engines have chains except for the older 3.4 liter DOHC engines.

I’m happy to assist further over the phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/jeremy_d728a59f986299fa

Hi,
No one has ever used plastic gears and chains. Some of the older big block models used timing gears with nylon teeth. This is true for all manufacturers and I believe ford still uses them in some engines. The disavantage to the nylon teeth was they would wear out somewhat faster, usually in the 80K-100K range. The pontiac V6 3800 engine has had steel toothed gears from 1986 to present and considered the most reliable V6 model ever built. While it is rare to actually break a timing chain under normal driving conditions, it does happen in race applications. However, when teeth and chains wear out, rough running and high fuel consumption due to poor mechanical time is the result. 350 GM engines were recommended to replace timing sets at 80K miles for optimum performance and were notorious for chewing off teeth. The aftermarket high performance replacement sets were made of cast iron or tempered steel. Double roller chain types, while noisier, lasted longer with fewer timing relasted issues. I had a 1979 firebird for 17 years with 200K+ miles on it and it still ran like a champ, so like anything else, proper maintenance and good driving habits have a huge affect on engine component life....Mike

under timing cover. right side of engine

Below are the pictures of the 2.4 DOHC and the V6.

this engine has a timing chain

I suggest that you visit the autozone.com website and register the car. It doesn't cost anything and will give you access to an online repair manual for the car. The steps for replacing the timing chain should be available there. Hope this helped and best wishes.

this engine has a timing chain, it is also one of the best engines GM builds.

rate me FIXYA!....thanks!