How loose should the timing chain be on the coast side?? I have 90k on the engine and i know it is about time to change it. Just trying to wait till this summer when i do the EFI swap to tear into everything.

When it chews through the cover, it's loose and should be replaced. Use plastic guides, they're better. J/K

...Bertha knows the real answer. PM him. A lot. It may take 10 or more PMs before he responds.

























Just returning the favor, Bertha :flipoff2:

Using the timing marks on the crank pulley, you shouldn't have more than 10 degrees of slop between the crank and the cam. Also, if you pull up on the chain on the cam gear, you shouldn't be able to see the gap between teeth under the chain.

Hope that makes sense.

Originally posted by NH_Toy
Using the timing marks on the crank pulley, you shouldn't have more than 10 degrees of slop between the crank and the cam. Also, if you pull up on the chain on the cam gear, you shouldn't be able to see the gap between teeth under the chain.

Hope that makes sense.

I had both those conditions on my 94 22RE. It had about 180k miles on it when the new chain kit from DOA was installed. The engine has a lot more power now, and runs smoother on the road.

Interestingly enough, the plastic guides looked new. There was hardly any wear in them at all. I was shocked, given what others have expereinced.

Just take the valvle cover off and have a look-see. You'll know right away if it''s time to do the job or not. I do remember the change interval being @ 130K miles though. Someone correct me if this is wrong.

I thought it was 140k, but not sure. Depends on how the engine has been used and maintained. I've heard of some going at 100k, and others lasting to 200k+.

It's an easy thing to check, and could prevent bent valves or worse if it breaks :eek:

Thanks for all the help...looks like it is time for a new chain:( I think i am just park my truck untill i get out of school for the summer. Damn...that means no wheeling for a while:mad:

i replaced mine and went with DOA metal timing guides. guides, chain, gears, tensioner, gaskets, etc ran me about 350. if you want email me and i will send you a word doc of a some info i collected from the web. it came in really handy. mine had eating through the guides and was working on the timing cover. luckily i stopped driving it and didnt have to replace it.

http://www.csupomona.edu/~cdcabrera/images/grooves_web.jpg

check out my site for my write up.