My daughters 2011 Malibu 2.4L has 60K miles - opened motor to find broken timing chain guide...it does have VVT...just FYI
My question is regarding the Balance shaft chain. I can find plenty of info regarding replacement of both balance chain and timing chain together, but nothing regarding timing chain only.
I have all timing chain components out, and with the #1 cylinder at TDC the balance chain timing marks do not line up. I have cycled the crank multiple times by hand. The balance shaft chain cycles smoothly and all balance shaft components appear in good order. However, the balance shafts and balance chain timing marks never line up properly (did the balance chain jump the gear?).
Can anyone tell the proper procedure to line up timing marks on the balance shaft chain if not replacing it?

*If at 60k miles it is advisable to replace the balance chain i will, but i am still curious about the answer to my question...thank you!!

Since you are in there I would replace it all. I can't imagine the shaft being out of time other than jumping.

....is it correct that the balance chain/ shaft should come "Home" every 2nd revolution of the crankshaft?

I don't think so. I would look to index it from scratch and put it all back together.

thanks for the advice carfixer007.

I would second the recommendation to replace the water pump balance chain and tensioner while your there. balance chain issues are common. You can hear so many of them rattle when engine hot and a/c on. There was a Policy to replace the balance chain due to stretching. Not saying it covers your vehicle,just noting there were issues with the chain and they were updated. It would be rare to find one that the timing marks and the colored links line up. You can see if the colored links are the same number of links off the marks on the sprockets. Remember the odd colored link goes on the right balance shaft sprocket as your facing the engine (intake side). Hope you find this helpful. I believe the Policy number for the balance chain is 12313 if I remember correctly.

Thank you for your input dpieroni3. Much appreciated.