Timing Chains

Performance timing chain sets with roller or "true roller" designs reduce friction by allowing the chain to go over the gear teeth more easily. This frees up additional horsepower with reduced drag on the engine. The roller design also helps to reduce timing chain stretch, which can cause decreased timing performance as well as negatively affect the performance of other engine components that are driven off the camshaft like mechanical fuel pumps, distributors, oil pumps, and other parts.

High performance automotive engine timing sets are designed by the manufacturer with the goal of eliminating any design weak points as well as using stronger materials. This results in improved part strength and longer life in heavy-duty and racing applications, where reliability and performance is critical.

You may ask yourself, "What does a timing chain do?" A timing chain connects the camshaft to the crankshaft via sprockets or gears. This connection allows the camshaft to stay in proper time with the crankshaft so that the valves open and close at the correct moment for proper combustion.

On average, the life and correct tension of timing chains lasts between 80,000 and 120,000 miles. This varies greatly depending on the engine, how well it is maintained, the quality of the timing chain materials and assembly, as well as how the engine is used (daily driver, racing, towing, etc.)

The amount of time required to replace a timing chain will vary, depending on the year, make, and model of the vehicle as well as the engine type. In most cases, auto timing chain replacement takes between four and eight hours.