New Timing Chain Question

[Joe Flanagan]

I was just trying to install a new timing chain and it seemed like it didn't want to go on no matter what I tried. Very close but no luck. Quit for the day because it was getting late. Then I went back through the archives and discovered it's best to put the chain and the two gears on as an assembly. I also read on a couple of posts that you should replace the three pieces all at once. I bought just the timing chain and kept my original gears. Could this be the problem? A new chain that doesn't fit my old gears?

[Don Coatney]

Joe;

As deep into this project as you are let the moths out of your wallet and buy all new parts. As I understand it there are a couple of different non compatable manufactures so buying as an assembly is the way to go.

[ptwothree]

And a new chain on old gears will wear out the chain much sooner........

[Dodgeb4ya]

And a new chain on old gears will wear out the chain much sooner........

Here is a new chain on old gears- notice new chain doesn't match crank gear width totally---- bad situation! Yes it is easier to to install new chain and gears equally/carefully on crank and cam gears. After install check with a straight edge/ ruler ect.and make sure dots line up!

Bob

Edited February 20, 2011 by Dodgeb4ya

[Joe Flanagan]

Don, the moths long since left my wallet. So I won't risk losing any when I open it up to buy new gears. Thanks for the advice. Thanks for the responses, everyone.

[garbagestate 44]

I also found that the chain and gears had to go on as an assembly since the tolerances are pretty tight with not much wiggle room. Mine was a crate engine for a snowcat that had never been used but I had to pull the front of the motor apart anyway since the timing case cover plate was wrong for the automotive application.