First off I got a new timing chain (no sprokets) with my cam kit. I installed the timing chain and it seems really loose. Is this normal? Do I need to replace the sprokets? If so how much are they?

I have an electric water pump so I have the choice to go with any SBC TC. Would you recommend this? If so, which one? Also I am really in a hurry to finish this. Where can I get it and how much?

I need your replies fast.

Thanks,
Z

 

My stock timing chain on my 97 was loose when I removed it at
30,000 miles. A lot looser that I would have expected. And way
looser than the LT4 extreme set that replaced it. Maybe the stock
set is just loose. My car ran fine with it.

 

I put the Lunati timing set in my 355 and it was snug. I really wouldn't recomend relacing just the chain. My engine had 45K on it when I pulled it out and the chain was way loose and the sprockets were well worn.

 

Thanks

Anyone else have any input? This is holding me from completing the install.

 

Blocks that have been align bored/honed will have this problem. You can buy a timing set with larger gears to correct it (.002, .005, .010).

If the block was never machined then it could be the sign of some core shift (cam bore to centerline distance off).

-Mindgame

 

Even a brand new, stock complete set can have a little slack. Take a new chain and put it on old sprockets and expect even more slack.

 

So do you suggest me change the sprockets too? It seems like an aweful lot of slack.

No machine work, stock motor.

 

Personally, I never change the chain without changing the sprockets, too. No one can guarantee that you will not have some slack, but it should be better with new gears. You could always opt to go with the LT4ED set (since you have a 1995).

 

Thank you shoebox, and let me say Thank you for the install guide.

How much are the new pulleys, and where can I get them?

I think I may order the Cloyes Double roller for 84-96 SBCs. I have read since I have the electric waterpump and the vented opti I can use a regular SBC TC. It is $80 from jegs. I think I will get it. Is there anything else I need to know about changing to this TC?

Thanks,
Jayme

 

Oh and what is the LT4ED? Part number or link to it?
Thanks

 

If I already had an electric pump, I would be using the Cloyes. You may need to clearance the inside of your timing cover a little. You can find the stock sprockets and LT4 set p/ns on my part number page.

 

Second vote for cloyes. It's a NICE piece, is CHEAP insurance, and shouldn't ever be an issue. You'll need to grind/clearance the inside of your timing cover to fit it, but it's an excellent choice

 

How much grinding needs to be done? Got any specifics on how much material needs to be removed?

Thanks
Zmefly

 

Yes, especially when the cam center to crank center is not within specifications. It does happen.

I do agree that the timing setup should always be replaced as a "set". I figured you were compounding the problem with an align bored block... my mistake...

-Mindgame

 

A lot more then i thought. as much as you can get and not go through the cover is a good safety net. Put the cover on, turn the motor, make sure it doesnt touch