Tough Times call for Tough Decisions

[Jake1971]

Originally Posted by RanchTruck

Put a new timing chain in it before you use it. Resist the temptation to upgrade anything else "while you're in there" and just drop it in.

Originally Posted by low&slow

I won't be upgrading anything on it for a while. Caddies are SUPER expensive to build. Why do say put a new timing chain in it?

Have you ever replaced a timing chain set on an engine that is still in the vehicle? It is MUCH easier while the engine is out. Doing this now before installing the engine is an added precaution/preventative maintenance step. That way you will be more confident about how long until the chain or gears wear out.

[Rod Run]

Originally Posted by Jake1971

Have you ever replaced a timing chain set on an engine that is still in the vehicle? It is MUCH easier while the engine is out. Doing this now before installing the engine is an added precaution/preventative maintenance step. That way you will be more confident about how long until the chain or gears wear out.

Isn't that a bit like rebuilding the entire engine while it's out, because it will be easier now than later?

Seriously though, unless the engine is tired and/or chain has obvious stretch in it, why bother?

[mechanicalman]

Originally Posted by Rod Run

Isn't that a bit like rebuilding the entire engine while it's out, because it will be easier now than later?

Seriously though, unless the engine is tired and/or chain has obvious stretch in it, why bother?

The 472 is a very old engine, they had nylon timing upper gear teeth from the factory. Enough for me.

[Rod Run]

Originally Posted by mechanicalman

The 472 is a very old engine, they had nylon timing upper gear teeth from the factory. Enough for me.

Ahhhh..... I guess I learned something today, thanks!