Engine Mechanical
Timing Chain
A timing chain links the crankshaft to the camshafts so the valves open in time with the pistons. We list 34 chains and kits from $26 to $400 for 1972-2022 vehicles, from Cloyes, AC Delco, Competition Cams and Melling, with many for the Chevrolet Corvette and others for the Ford Explorer and Mercedes 380SL.
Shop timing chain by vehicle
Signs of a worn timing chain
Timing chains are designed to last much longer than belts, but they stretch with wear, and guides and tensioners can break down. Poor oil changes speed this up.
Common signs include a rattle from the front of the engine at cold start, a check engine light with camshaft and crankshaft correlation codes, rough running and loss of power. Metal fragments in the oil or plastic guide pieces in the oil pan are also warning signs.
Chain only or full kit
Some listings are just the chain. Others are kits with sprockets, tensioner, guide rails and bolts. Since much of the labor is removing the front cover, many owners replace the chain, sprockets and guides together to avoid repeating the job.
Check the chain type, such as roller or inverted tooth, and whether sprockets are included. Performance kits for small block engines may offer adjustable cam timing.
Fitment and installation
Engines can use primary and secondary chains, and different years of the same engine may use different parts. Use the fitment table with your engine code and confirm the chain type.
Line up the timing marks on the crank and cam sprockets carefully before final assembly. Turn the engine by hand two full turns to confirm the marks still align. Fit a new front cover gasket and seal, and change the oil after the job.
Timing Chain questions
How long does a timing chain last?
Many last the life of the engine with regular oil changes, but some engines are known for chain or guide wear. A rattle at cold start or correlation codes means it needs checking.
Should I replace the timing chain guides at the same time?
Yes, in most cases. Guides and tensioners wear alongside the chain, and replacing them together avoids taking the engine apart again. Inspect the chain itself for stretch at the same time.
Can a stretched timing chain cause a check engine light?
Yes. On many engines a stretched chain changes the relationship between the crank and cam sensors, which can set correlation codes and turn on the light.