What ill effects will a stretched timing chain present? How can I tell if it is stretched? About how many miles before they become too stretched? And how do I change it, any special tools needed or tricks used? Thanks for the info!

 

A sloppy timing chain will give you some interesting performance problems. Basically, your timing will NOT be stable.

To check for excessive stretch, take off the distributor cap, turn the engine till the rotor is pointed at some reference point. (doesn't matter what.....) (but, you will want your timing mark on the damper somewhere on the timing scale) then, turn the engine the other way, and see how many degrees it turns before the rotor starts to move. Up to approximately 6 degrees is "ok". more than that, and it is time for a new timing chain and gears.

Have fun.