Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Timing Chain: Installation
When installing timing chain, use a suitable tool (C-3509) to prevent camshaft from contacting welch plug in rear of engine block. Remove distributor and oil pump-distributor drive gear. Locate tool against rear side of cam gear and attach tool with distributor retainer plate bolt. Then proceed as follows:
- Place camshaft and crankshaft sprockets on bench with timing marks on imaginary centerline through bore of both sprockets. Place timing chain around both sprockets. Turn crankshaft and camshaft to line up with keyway location in crankshaft sprocket and camshaft sprocket (dowel hole in camshaft sprocket on 400" and 440" engines).
- Slide both sprockets evenly over their respective shafts (with new chain installed on sprockets). Use a straight edge to measure alignment of timing marks. Install washer and camshaft sprocket both and tighten. Check that rear face of aluminum camshaft sprocket is flush with end of camshaft.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.