Accepted Answer

Hello!
   If the engine is damaged internally because it is out of time, then it is going to be a verye xpensive repair; replacing the engine may be a better option.
   This engine actually has THREE timing chanis, along with many associated timing components such as sprockets and chain guides.   If any one of these parts should fail it will cause the moving parts inside the engine to no longer be synchronized; this results in moving parts (such as pistons and valves) hitting each other.
   From the description you gave, it would sound as if the shop that last worked on the engine is most likely not to blame for this unfortunate occurrence.    Replacing worn out belts, hoses, and a thermostat are routine parts that need to be replaced for maintenance at this age, and all of these parts are on the outside of the engine.    It would be very difficult to imagine any way that replacing any of these parts could have caused damage to moving parts that are concealed inside of the engine....    And, as you stated yourself, the car ran very well for a few days after the service was done.
    It sounds as if you have had an unfortunate coincidence here; and it is likely that the mechanic that did the maintenance work on the last visit feels as badly about it as you do.    No mechanic likes to see one of his customers experience a breakdown, especially of this severity and having it occur so soon after a visit is even worse.     However, it is unlikely that he is to blame for this particular problem.

Expert:	Steve7654
Pos. Feedback:	99.4 %
Accepts:
Answered:	2/5/2009

Auto Service Technician

25+ yrs experience as a professional working technician; ASE L1 master technician