GMC / Chevy Small Block Chevy Timing Chain Slack...

[Nate R]

..how muck is too much?

This post isn't 4x4 related, but could be useful info for any one with a SBC.

I have a '65 Chevy Nova with a 327 in it. It seems to run okay, but doesn't have the power that it should. I've done a compression test on it and have between 135-140 psi across all 8 cylinders, I have been told that isn't too bad for what it is. Has a new tune up (plugs, wires, cap, rotor), but still low on power and has a miss.

Now for my question, will the a loose timing chain cause power loss and how loose would be considered too loose?

the pictures show the amount of slack that it has.

What do you think?

-Nate

 

[Tacoma]

that looks like too much.

There is spec for that somewhere, I may have it in a manual somewhere. I'll look.

 

[Tacoma]

My '89 manual says 5/8" of slack in the chain, which should amount to.. a lot less rotational slack than you're showing.

I would replace yours with a good quality double-roller chain, available everywhere for not much. Make sure to use the right tool for removal/installation of that harmonic damper too.

 

[Tacoma]

http://www.misterfixit.com/chanslop.htm

Good check, easy to do.

 

[Nate R]

Thanks Tacoma! I hoped you'd check in on this one. I'll report back with what I find.