kul52

Thinking of a cam swap in my LS2. I tried the search feature but can't really find any thread that say why some people change timing chains when doing a cam swap in a LS2. I saw a couple of references to possible chain failure but don't know if this is an issue on a LS2.

I have noted that when looking at cam packages that some include a new timing chain, some do not. Of the ones that do about 1/2 are LS2 chains, and 1/2 are double roller chains.

The shop that will do the install says the "look at" the tining chain bit don't normally replace them with cam swap. I'm thinking it's cheap insurance for a 60,000 engine, but am I wasting money or is it really an issue and if so why choose a new LS2 chain or a more expensive double chain?

Thanks for any reponses.

Klickmania

I'm not sure of it being an "issue" on these LS motors or anything like that. It's basically considered to be just a good engine building habit to get into. It saves you from having to pull the water pump and front end accessories off just to change a timing chain that you could have replaced when you did the cam swap. Like you said, it's basically insurance from a headache down the road.

Double roller chains are for just a little added strength as well. Don't think it could hurt to swap from your stock one.

- Spencer

Chris@Straightline

iTrader: (1)

Timing chains do stretch over time. I've seen a few that were VERY loose even at only 50k-60k miles. Then add the greater stress to the chain from higher lift/more duration and stronger springs and it increases the risk of breaking a timing chain. Im not saying it will break, but if it does the results are normally pretty bad. Like said before, a little money while its apart is alot better than a severly damaged motor down the road.

devildog

iTrader: (3)

Good information here...i was wondering the same thing but with my LS1...thanks guys!

Piece of mind > being stressed about it.

badss_02

iTrader: (2)

I personally wouldn't plan on doing a new timing chain on a 60k motor... Be sure and check it out tho and make sure it doesnt have too much play. On the other hand its a lot cheaper to do a new timing chain than a new motor.

rsz288

Double row timing set: very good insurance.

SOMbitch

iTrader: (8)

A new ls2 chain is only like $30. That is what I would do.

1.8t

I suggest you find the strongest chain available and use it. I broke the TC on my LS3 at only 15k miles, with only 8k of those miles cammed. Everything about my install was perfect and it was purely a TC failure.

loreak

So what are the effects when it breaks? Do valves smack pistons and mess up everything or does it just need replaced but no harm to the heads/pistons.

rsz288

Yes valves and pistons often occupy the same piece of space......then they automatically make allowance for that by bending and breaking .

kul52

Thanks for te replies. I've pretty much decided to change it. Now I just need to decide if I'll spend an extra hundred more than a replacement stock LS2 chain and go ahead and gte an IWIS or Cloyes

Claimslngr

Consider Katech's C5R chain. To bad you missed their sale!

kul52

Figures!

Clevite Kid

With the economy the way it is, I predict they will repeat the sale soon. And I was able to get my C5-R timing chain for 20% off - good deal !

ZTwentyAteU

iTrader: (12)

I would not do just a new chain, at least do a timing set w/ new gears. The gears and chain have a certain wear pattern and new chain+old gears will chew up the chain over time

just my 2c

Eskimo

iTrader: (9)

Not to mention, going with an adjustable set, when you degree your new cam in, you can adjust it to get it right in spec.

Jason 98 TA

iTrader: (4)

We stock tons of different options in timing chains. If your looking budget buy a replacement chain like the LS2, or you can upgrade to a single roller or double roller for a little bit more money. Give us a call & we can help point you in the right direction based on your goals.

kul52

Ended up buying a C5R chain and new sprockets to go with my 224/230 113 LSA + 4 61x/61x lift cam. The extra power in my 4850 pound truck is very noticable. 70-110 MPH is completing awesome compared to stock. It should be even much better when I get long tubes installed in the next couple of months. After that I'll be looking heads/intake so Jason I'll probably be calling you then.

The piece of mind for a few extra $$$ with the timing chain is worth it to me. Thanks for all the replies.

Grifter

iTrader: (12)

Besides the fast that it could be stretched it's just a part that you should repalce while you're in there since it's not easy to get at. Like a slave cylinder when you are replacing a clutch.