timing chain slack on one side
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Senior User
Joined: Aug 2005
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timing chain slack on one side
ok i have a 351m and have pulled the timing chain cover and oil pan. my question is that on the driver side of the chain is somewhat pretty tight, but the passenger side has some slack in it. i was wondering if that was kinda normal, or should i replace it while i am looking at it. any help would be great. and if i need to replace it which one should i use??? thanks for the replies
Posting Legend
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 30,255
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The chain will always have slack in it, the side the slack is on will depend on which way you are turning the crank at the moment. If the chain has more than 50K miles replace it. If it is an OEM type silent chain, or does not have multiple keyways in the crank sprocket, then replace it. Set aftermarket multi-keyway cams at "0" unless you have degreed the cam per manufacturer's specifications and have found the timing inaccurate.
Elder User
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 621
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From: near pittsburgh pa
If you rotate your crank the other way, you will have slack on that side. Somw slack is normal. Depending on miles on the enine and how many more you want to put on it, I would replace it with a good roller chain. With the aftermarket brands, you can set the cam straight up. Engine will run better.
If this engine is getting tired and may need rebuild, I would let it go, save your money and wait till rebuild time. Good Luck
If this engine is getting tired and may need rebuild, I would let it go, save your money and wait till rebuild time. Good Luck
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Senior User
Joined: Aug 2005
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the reason i pulled it apart was because the balancer seal was leaking, and plus i was going to change the pan seal, because i wanted to check on the crank to see if it was a 351 or 400. (i dont remember where to look though), but as long as there is supposed to be slack on one side then i will prolly wait untill i do a rebuild for a new chain.
