New Timing Chain, etc.?
 

Am upgrading a 70 2.2 S to pressure fed tensioners. Read everything in this forum on the subject and have Wayne's 101 Projects book but still have a few questions:

1. Should I reinstall, on the new tensioners, the failsafe collars I have on my original tensioners, just for insurance?

2. Should I replace my timing chain while I'm in there? Even though I've already purchased a new chain I'm concerned based on my experience with racing bikes--putting a new chain on old sprockets (88k on this engine) results in the chain skipping. that would be very undesirable, even disastrous, if it happened on my engine! My biking experience tells me to leave well enough alone until I have to replace everything. Opinions?

3. What, if anything, should I use to seal the paper gaskets for the timing chain covers? I've heard some recommendations but none are available here in Hawaii. Would Permatex high temp silicone gasket maker do the job?

Thanks for any and all info.

I share your concern about new chains and old sprokets. Many people have put new chains in with no problems however. My feeling is that if the chains aren't excessively long from wear I keep the old one. If the chain gets too long it will put the tensioner out of it's normal range. You have to be the judge. The collars will not fit on the pressure fed tensioners and aren't needed.

-Andy

The gaskets are supposed to be installed dry. If your covers are not warped the will seal fine. If you want to put a sealer on I'd use a sealer like locktite 518. Permatex makes one the same. These are anarobic sealers made for these kinds of places. I found some at NAPA.

-Andy

Thanks, Eagledriver! Appreciate your insights. Will try to get started soon.

Aloha Phil. I share your pain about access and machine work. I'm on the windward side.