RWD Double Roller Timing Chain?

[Guest]

fairly large central hole just like the gen 3. Not sure if the backside is simlar to the 3x00 though so it might not sit the same on the cam. If it doesn't I think a little machining would allow this to work.

[caffeine]

I PM'd bl85c on thirdgen.org and got this:

Others have done it to roller blocks using the same method. The chain's been perfect since I did it, just make sure the sprocket is centered properly when you do it because the locating dowel just barely sticks out far enough to locate the sprocket. Pushing up lightly on the sprocket with the chain on when you tighten the bolts will do it.

Quote:
Originally Posted by caffeine
I saw in one of your threads that you installed a Cloyes DRTC with a roller cam in one of your engines. I had a couple questions I was hoping you could answer.

First, do you think it would be possible to use your method to install a Gen I/II style chain in a roller can block? I see two advantages to this; first you eliminate the possibility of the dowel pin shearing, and second it's possible to install an off the shelf double roller chain. Fitting behind a FWD timing cover isn't a problem for me since I'm using a RWD cover.

Second how has the Cloyes chain held up for you? Any issues?

I don't know. You'll need to take measurements to find out.

Quote:
Originally Posted by caffeine
One other thing; the roller cam blocks have a plate that bolts overtop of the cam I'm assuming to prevent the cam from walking forward and backward. Can this be reused to avoid using a cam button? Or will drilling/tapping the three bolt holes interfere with its fitment?

Also I'm uploading the pics here

[ericjon262]

most of those dowels can be removed, yank it and install a longer one.

another thought, see if comp cams will grind the cam with a SBC/LT1 end on it instead of the 60v6 single bolt end. you'd still need to verify a few measurements, but I'd bet the bolt circles are the same between the SBC/LT1 cam nose, and the flat tappet cam noses, and the LT1 and roller cam SBC used a wear plate just like the 3x00 engines.

[caffeine]

I'm considering ordering a DRTC to try out but id rather find a scrap 2.8/3.1/3.4 chain to play with first...

[ericjon262]

I'd bet a stock replacement par is only $20-30

Edit:

orielly's wants 28.99 for one.

[caffeine]

I was hoping Ben would also chime in on whether or not the cams could be ordered with a cam nose that's compatible with the Gen I/II timing chains. And if not then why .

[ericjon262]

I'm sure comp would do it. if I had more time, I'd call and ask, but I barely have time for anything during normal business hours...

[SappySE107]

Comp won't make you a 3 bolt roller cam, even if you go billet.

[caffeine]

Just in case anyone is wondering the 3900 chain tensioner fits a 3500 perfectly

[1988GTU]

hrmmmmm
Wonder if it will buy time in longevity or pre-premature the chain stretching issues?

[caffeine]

I've seen badly stretched chains that haven't broken so it stands to reason that the chain should last a bit longer with then tensioner taking up slack. Usually a chain failure happens from jumping teeth from what I can gather.

[caffeine]

I'm guessing that GM added the tensioner to the 3900 for the purpose of preventing slack from developing as the cam was phasing

[1988GTU]

Its worth a shot to try for sure.

You have a GM part number for that piece?

[caffeine]

Just look on rock auto

[geoffinbc]

It would sure work better than the old style damper that sat between the chain. Because of the distance between the gears of our engines a lot of chain whip can develop.