Cam chains with link?

[Mo_Gearhead]

Friend has motor that needs timing chains/gears/etc. replaced. He does NOT want to split the case. I have seen P car chains listed that you put together with a side link (ala motorcycle).

Any thoughts on the reliability of this setup? Should he go ahead and tear down the engine and use continuous chains?

If LINK style is acceptable, how do you get old ones out (cover everyting up and cut them with a Dremel Tool, etc.)? And how does one " thread" the new chain down and over the lay shaft???

Anyone used these ?

[2.7RACER]

Replacement timing chains with a master link are common and reliable.
A partial engine drop will give you access to the camshaft housings.
You'll need new gaskets and new elastic stop nuts and washers are always recommended.
The condition of the drive sprockets and driven sprockets must be good or the life of the replacement chain will be short.
Do not install new chains onto worn sprockets.
Typically the old chain is separated with a chain breaking tool. A simple tool available at most bearing houses that pushes the pins out of the chain link.
With the crankshaft at Z1 position, make a note of the position of the markings on the end of each camshaft.
The best way is to get a clear photo of the cam markings on each side for reference later.
Typically they will be straight up or exactly straight down at Z1.
Both sides will be up or both sides will be down.
The new chain is then attached to the old chain and the engine crankshaft rotated slowly clockwise, always clockwise, pulling the new chain around the intermediate shaft sprocket.
It will be necessary to rotate the cam COUNTER CLOCKWISE as the engine is rotated to prevent the pistons from pushing against open valves.
Counter clockwise because the intermediate shaft that drives the cam timing chains is itself turned by a crankshaft gear.
Once the new chain is fully installed on one side, rotate the crankshaft always clockwise, to Z1. Note the orientation of the markings on the other cam. They will be straight up or straight down. Match the cam position you are working on with other side by jumping the chain if necessary.
To take a term from popular manuals "repeat on the other side, assembly is the reverse of disassembly."
If you are not familiar with how the crankshaft makes two rotations while the camshafts are making one rotation, observe this relationship while turning the crankshaft clockwise. Understand the relationship of the Z1 mark and the markings on the ends of the camshafts.
Use a marker if the cam shaft markings aren't clear.

Remember both sides will be straight up or straight down at Z1.

[Mo_Gearhead]

Thanks for the tips Doug.