Timing chain replacement

[Michaeljp86]

I need to change the water pump on my truck, Edzzed said I should change the timing chain too. Do I just need to replace the chain or should I buy the whole set of new chain and sprockets?

 

[Edzzed]

you don't have to change the timing chain, It is only a suggestion since you will be going into that part of the engine. I have heard that with 100,000 miles or more it's always a good idea to change both the timing chain and sprockets as sprockets do wear over time.

 

[Michaeljp86]

I dont want to have any trouble with it so if its something that could cause me greif Id rather fix it now.

 

[NVW]

I think Missy posted before that she has just replaced the chain.

I know with regular roller chain a sprocket will outlast several chains.

 

[handcannon]

Is the timing chain a roller chain? Not like the stock chain on the small block Chev?

Don

 

[Chief915]

Is the timing chain a roller chain? Not like the stock chain on the small block Chev?

Don

Yes it's a double row roller timing chain..... Think two bicycle chains side by side.

 

[bobbiemartin]

Also called a duplex chain. Use to be you could find a USA made set with sprockets & chain for not a lot more than just a chain. Can't say for sure, but have heard Cloyes are now made in China. Its really no problem just replacing the chain and keeping the factory sprockets. Finding a USA made chain might be a challenge. I actually had a conversation with Bill Heath about cam drives a while back. He says he runs a used chain & sprockets on all his engines, says there is absolutely no reason to change the chain. He has built a lot more 6.5s than I ever will, so I have no reason to doubt him. But when I built my engine, I found a new USA made Cloyes timing set, so that is what is in my 6.5.

 

[deejaaa]

i could of saved a few bucks if i had just replaced the chain. sprockets were good.

 

[handcannon]

Yes it's a double row roller timing chain..... Think two bicycle chains side by side.

Thank you. I'm familiar with the roller chain. I put one in my 327 way back before kids and gray hair.

Don

 

[Guster]

It's either stretched \ worn or not. Check it and see. I don't put new chains on worn sprockets personally, but that's just me.