I'm in the process of rebuilding my LT1 in my 97 Camaro. It's been a longer than expected process and right now, I need to figure out the timing chain aspect. I have decided to go with an aftermarket double roller chain and electric water pump. I have searched the forums and it seems that there might be clearance issues with the reluctor ring and the DR. The engine is at a machine shop now, so making a spacer shouldn't be a problem but the machinist would like a visual reference. Anyone have a pic that I can use?

I'm pretty set on a EWP, so if there's a better option than a DR, or if there's a DR that will fit, I'm all ears. After reading previous posts, it sounds like modifying the cover and hub are the way to go. I really don't want to replace the hub...

 

why don't you buy it now, so your machinist can do some test-fit... a little bit of brute force and ignorance can go a long way in this kind of issues.

 

I'm sure he was just trying to get me off the phone, it is Friday after all. If I can get him a pic over the weekend, it may be a little easier to explain. He's a competent machinist, so I'm sure he could figure it out.

 

You can't really make a spacer because that spacer would push the reluctor ring out and then the hub wouldn't fit all the way on. I've never personally done it but you have to grind the reluctor ring itself. Why go DR anyway, why not just run a single chain?

 

I have a 97 LT1... I just went with LT4 heavy duty timing chain and that went in extremely easy with no spacer needed and no problems what so ever... I also am running an electric water pump. you will just have to have ur mechanic put in a couple freeze plugs, install the water pump (which comes with directions) and your set to go. Just make sure you wire it up properly.

 

I went with a pro gear setup. It is not double roller, but good quality.

 

As with most people, the main reason for a DR is to save money. The LT4 is ridiculously priced and while being reliable, it's only a single. I'd have no problems with a single roller if the price was competetive with the doubles.

So, I'm just looking for a pic or exploded diagram so I can tell the machinist plainly what I need done. I know the reluctor needs to be replaced with a spacer of some sort, .67" seems to come to mind.

 

How's the ProGear set? Is it a double or single. Did you still have to clearance the timing cover and remove the reluctor ring?

 

The reluctor ring is real easy to make into a spacer, it has kind of step ridges on it just pick the size and grind it down like a large washers.

 

Supposed to be a top notch chain and gears, that is vibratory tumbled. It does not have timing cover issues. It has timing marks for adjustment when degreeing, and is supposed to be just as strong as a double

I can see where you could use it as a spacer, but is he still going to be using the crank sensor? I am trying to visualize this here.