timing chains - replace pinions as well?

[Ravioliv]

Hi all,
quick one regarding replacement of timing chains when rebuilding an engine :
Is it mandatory ( or highly recommended ) to put new pinions when replacing chains?
Reason being chain and pinions wearing in a certain pattern and putting new chain on "worn" pinions will have a poor fit.
I know this is a silly comparison, but in cycling putting a new chain with old gears is resulting in poor shifting....

Engine mileage is 180 000 km .........or maybe the best is to leave original chain and pinions if no signs of wear?....

Thanks for the hints and hop the point has not been covered already....I ran a search and did not find the answer....

[RedCoupe]

If you're splitting the case and taking the engine all the way down, then I believe it would be false economy to replace the chains without replacing the sprockets. That said, if you aren't splitting the crankcase, I would still replace the chains even though the intermediate shaft sprockets can't be replaced. Just my opinion and others may disagree.