I have a 94 LT1 that I'm doing a LE1 head and cam swap after I blew a head gasket . I previously installed an MSD vented opti with my original 94 timing cover . I want to install a double roller timing chain . Can I use my 94 timing cover ? I've heard others use the Cloyes #3146 double roller T/C . But looking at that timing chain , the picture doesn't show the dist drive hole in the middle ? How does that work ? http://www.summitracing.com/parts/CLO-9-3146-10/
Any info greatly appreciated .

 

It doesn't. You will have to stick with the cam gear you have. Basically, you are stuck with stock type set when using a spline drive opti.

 

I have a 94 stock timing chain if you are looking for one. PM me

tia

andy schuck

 

Should I buy a stock replacement , or reuse my old one and just buy a new chain , or I've heard of guys using LT4 t/c , will that work for my setup ?

 

Well I already have my stock setup . I just want to know if theres anything better ?

 

No. You can't use anything other than the stock type set. I am a fan of replacing the whole set, not just parts of it. They wear as a unit.

 

couldn't you convert to a double roller, but you would have to plug the hold for the water pump and upgrade to a electric water pump? Its what i did on my 95, i'm not sure if the difference between 94 and 95. I mean if you have the $ into a LE1 H/C then a Ele WP wouldn't be too bad either.

 

I already have a electric water pump , I think I I can use a double roller if I get a 96- 97 timing cover and t/c set , but I'd have to sell my 94 MSD dist and buy a 96 - 97 dist . Don't think I want to do all that .

 

In order for you to convert, you will need the 95 timing cover, vented optispark unit, electrical harness, vacuum lines, and the electric water pump. This also means you need to upgrade the camshaft to the longer dowel pin version (in order to drive the optispark), warranting a cam swap.

You may need to trim the inside of the cover some. I converted to a double roller myself (3146, worked fine) and had to clearance slightly.