how long to change timing chain?

[Tom Tom Turbo]

I'm gonna go ahead and change the timing chain on the ol TR. How long does it take to do this and it is a big pain? Also, what are your choices for chains???

 

[topfuel]

Just finished mine, I would say about 5-7 hours.
Make sure you double check everything, it's way faster
to take your time and do it right the first time, than to tear
it apart again for a mistake made in haste
Air tools will make it a lot easier, and there is lots of time
spent cleaning old gasket material and oil leaks.
I used a Napa chain and gears (made by Cloyes)
New GM tensioner
New Carter water pump
Victor front crank seal
I had 98k on the original, found several cracks and worn
teeth on the cam gear along with a streched chain.
I'm glad I did it

 

[Turbo Brian]

You will also have to drop the oil pan and change the gasket to get a good seal at the bottom of the front cover. It would be worthwhile to send off for a cork gasket from Kirban to ensure a good pan seal.

 

[topfuel]

Oh yeah

I forgot to mention the roller cam button too
and some teflon thread sealer

 

[GN Bob]

Make sure you don't put thread sealer in the 2 dowel pin holes in the block. A bent front cover will spoil your fun in a hurry.

You might want to consider a high volume oil pump kit while the cover is off.

 

[Kid with a toy]

I went with the Dynagear chain. I had 57k or so miles on mine, and had a tooth or two gone. Not to mention the cracks, lots of cracks.

The chain was stretched so bad that once TurboGN and I took off the tensioner (hanging in there at 89 degrees), we could lift it off without removing the gear

Invest in lots of razor blades and scrapers, cans of carb cleaner, and time. Take your time. Set aside an entire weekend to expect the unexpected.

And if you run into a problem, don't "wing it"...post it. Most of us on here have been thru it and can help.

P.S.
If you have an old cover, grab it. It makes keeping up with, and replacing the cover bolts a snap.

HTH
Erik

 

[MSDGN]

I would definitely pull the pan...it's easier to pull the front cover and put it back plus you really should check the oil pickup...most likely has junk on the screen...