I just installed a new stock timing chain with a new crank and cam gear and the dots are aligned, but I think I'm getting a little more slack on the right side than on the left side. I'm pretty sure the old one was the same way.
I tried taking it off and reinstalling it +one tooth and the dots were off after that, so I just put it back like it was. Is this normal? If so, should the slack be on the right side or on the left side?
Thanks.

 

TTT

 

I'm not sure but I thought any slack would be on the right side (when looking at it on the engine). Wait for others to comment.

When I installed the GMPP ED timing set there was much less slack than with the oem LT1 chain.

 

When you were checking the slack, did you have the retainer bolts tightened, when I did mine I just slid it on with out tightening the bolts and it was real loose, then once I tightened them the slack ws out, just a though it thats how you did it.

 

A teeny bit of rotation of the cam or crank sprocket with transfer the slack from one side to the other. When running, the side that is "pulling" the chain will have less slack than the other side. Not really anything to worry about.

 

I was concerned about the slack with the extreme duty set I put in mine. I called the guys at Lingenfelter and they said not to worry about it.

Gordon
WitchHunter Performance
http://www.witchhunter.com

 

Yup.

 

Just put mine in on sat. and it was the same way. about 1/8th to 1/4in. slack on the right side and barely any on the left side. Machinist told me it was normal.

 

This brings up an interesting point.. I have seen 5 Lt1 timing chains over the last few months with various mileage (40-190k).. all of them seemed to have a large amount of slack..

I switched to a comp double roller and it was much tighter.. now I am wondering is that designed into the LT1s or do they stretch too much.. just seems a bit low quality to me..

 

That is what I have hear from those with more knowledge than me. The oem LT1 "laminated" chain seems to be a little whimpy.

The GMPP LT1/LT4 ED timing set should be the oem version. It is a nice step up from that el cheapo oem. But GM should be ashamed from what they charge for it.