That's very correct.
Last week I pulled the old timingchain set from the 318 and replaced it with a new set.
The old chain had 1" of play on both sides of the gears...!
After replacement I noticed the engine felt 'tighter' and had a little more torque at low rpms, but it wasn't until I reset the timing on the engine that the real power came to life. Well, as much as one can speak of 'real power' from a 318... lol
The car now pulls away a lot snappier than before and I'm pretty sure this should show in the mileage numbers.
Unfortunatly with the colder temps here mileage will drop anyhow but I will be keeping a close eye on it.
