I was wanting to convert to the chainless system, idler gear type. I have searched but no luck. I read that it's because there is a knock sensor on our computer controlled cars. I have the LT4 knock module and I can get the computer tuned I guess to get the knock sensor turned off or something so I could use it right? I was just wondering. I guess it can't adjust the timing by the computer without a chain or it will send false knock due to noise? Let me know. Thanks.

 

You will probably get a ton of knock timing retard and you will have an annoying (IMO) whine. There was some guy that did it but he had to modify the timing cover and something else I guess. The timing chains barely ever fail, its very uncommon to hear of an LT1 failing because it jumped timing on the chain. Unless you have 250k+ miles I wouldnt worry about the chain.

 

It's not that I think it's going to break, I have the GM Performance Timing kit and I think the idler gear is alot better and the noise is no prob. U can have the computer tuned for the timing retard stuff, you can even set it at a solid number rather then having it jump. It will fit in iside the cover with no prob I bealieve. I was just wondering if anyone had some info on it or if anyone knows if it can be done or anyone who's using it.

 

Problem is, it won't work with the Opti or the water pump.

 

If its the cam pin driven opti it will work, but the waterpump will be a nogo.

I just installed a quiet set on a 94 T/A with a converted to 95 opti on it and an electrical waterpump. We had to desensitize the knock sensor and do quite a bit of tuning to get it not to retard the timing, we are thinking of just doing away with the KS.
The wine is very slight and can really only be heard over the loud exhaust when getting on it.

The installation was pretty straight forward, we had to clearnace the cover and that was basicly it.

 

i dont see any reason to run a timing gear set unless you just want the whine. a cloyes double roller chain will be plenty strong, and installing a gear set usually costs 10-15hp and shortens valvetrain life