93 Timing chain question
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Apr 2000
Posts: 5,713
Likes: 105
From: Manassas VA
93 Timing chain question
I ordered a mezerine water pump from a forum member. You know how 1 thing leads to another. I need to pull my radiator to install my aux transmission cooler, which I need with the new converter and transmission rebuild. Whew!! Anyways, while I have the radiator out, the water pump off, I figured with 96000 miles it would be a good time to install a new timing chain. My question is which one. I know i wont need the LT1 set up anymore with the electric pump, but I would like, for now, to reuse the opti spark since it only has about 9000 miles on it. Do I just need a standard SBC chain and gears and then seal the timing cover where the water pump drive passes through? Also what is the best way to seal the pump drive?
Race Director
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 14,165
Likes: 9
Re: 93 Timing chain question (Red 86 4+3)
For the 93 if you are planning on reusing your current opti you'll need to use an OEM timing chain. You might can just get the chain if the gears don't appear worn. The reason is that the opti drive is different. If you convert to a newer style opti you can use a different type of timing set, otherwise you are pretty much stuck.
Race Director
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 14,678
Likes: 751
From: NEwhere Ohio
Re: 93 Timing chain question (Red 86 4+3)
I just put a factory replacement in mine when I had it apart for the hot cam install.
I think you have to get some different parts to convert to a beefier chain. I may be wrong though
I think you have to get some different parts to convert to a beefier chain. I may be wrong though
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Apr 2000
Posts: 5,713
Likes: 105
From: Manassas VA
Re: 93 Timing chain question (Nathan Plemons)
Is it much more work to go ahead and install a chain when changing the water pump? I plan on eventually changing the cam but not this year. The opti-spark was replaced just before I got the car. Had 89000 miles on it at that time. It now has 96000 miles on it in 2 years. So it is basically new, But I suspect the chain would be worn. So, at this point what is your recmendation, leave it alone or change the chain and inspect the gears for wear? Oh by the way when I do the cam, eventually, I did plan on the new opti at that time. Just wanted to do it in stages, IE roller rockers and springs first. And thanks for your opinions!!
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jun 2000
Posts: 3,215
Likes: 6
From: Tampa Florida
Re: 93 Timing chain question (Red 86 4+3)
I would replace it with OEM stuff. It worked for how long so should continue to serve you.
I also would not go cheap and buy a chain only. Do it as a unit-example is dirt bikes will never replace just a chain-always sprockets and chain together. If the chain is worn then the gears are as well.
:)
I also would not go cheap and buy a chain only. Do it as a unit-example is dirt bikes will never replace just a chain-always sprockets and chain together. If the chain is worn then the gears are as well.
:)
