'86 2.8 mpfi. Finaly doing the timing chain. Ive got 145k and I'm hoping this will bring new life into her. I'm asuming I will need, in addition to the chain of course, a chain cover gasket, a water pump gasket, but will I need to remove the oil pan? Should I buy a gasket for the pan too? Are there any other misc. stuff I will need to pick up for this project? Also, standard timing is 10*, right? Thanks for any help

 

The timing chain gaset set I bought had the front "arc" of the oil pan gasket with it. And you just used alot of silicone between the old and new gasket.

Stock timing is 10*

You will need a harmonic balancer puller, and they also recommend a balancer installer, but alot of people use a board and BFH.

I recommend chainging oil after your done, and you will need antifreeze. Might want to inspect your houses while the coolent is drained.

 

Hey Dale............I m bout to swap out timing chains. I ve heard you gotta replace the front seal? Need too know b4 embarking on this lil project.

 

It is a good idea to do it. The seal is included in the gasket set. Also spen $4 to get the Harmonic balancer sleeve repair kit.

 

MD is right. The gasket set I bought came with that. It was fel-pro brand.

 

So, when I go into NAPA/AutoZone instead of buying each gasket individualy, should I ask for the timing chain gasket kit? And that will have every thing I will need? How many hours should I estimate for this job?

 

Correct on the gasket kit. Tell them you want a fel-pro timing chain gasket set.

As for time, I changed the one on my 3.4l for the s10, engine was out, and I took my time stripping it down, waited a week for chain, then took time installing.

 

On my '86, I didn't use that front piece of oil pan seal that came in the FelPro kit. I just wiped the pan flange down with a rag with brake cleaner on it, and then laid down some blue RTV.

On our '86's, we also have two screws underneath the bottom of the timing chain cover. The GM Service Manual and Haynes book dont' show this too clearly; I was trying to pry my cover off when I decided to look for bolts- and found 'em! (oops) So make sure you remove these two bolts...

I also used Permatex Hi-Tack (red) gasket sealant; comes in a metal can with a brush in the lid. See it here: http://www.permatex.com/products/pro...&item_no=80062 When you scrape that timing chain cover, remember that the cover is aluminum, so don't gouge the cover too much. The sealant helps fill in the gouges so you don't get leaks.

 

How long?
4-8 hours
How much
About $100 for all stuff
How much stuff ya get
Fel Pro makes a dandy timing chain change gaset SET
Everything ya need in there.
Get new water pump (it's $20 & in your hand during the TC chain swap)
Change all hoses ifd need so.
Fresh fluid (use radiator cleaner before ya do this project to flush system, then drain
Leave in old oil, drive, test car for a day or three, then change or plan oil change very soon after TC chain swap
DEFINETLY GRAB a HB sleeve repair for the measly $4
Be aware that
The current timing chain cover could be worn by old fluids & be ready to spring leaks.
Look at water passages for corossion.
Replace timing chain tensioner or buy a chain that requires removal of the TC tensioner
Check balancer for worn ring rubber & be prepared for a fight to get it off.
WORTH IT BIG TIME this project.
Follow up by ignition upgrade & self doing distributor rebuild.
HP gain back could be 10+ SOLID HP, cooler running temps, more gas milage. Follow by exhaust flow upgrade & enjoy the ride & longer engine life.

PS be aware of upper RPM limits & visits, due to aged/old valve springs. 145K is starting to push it. These little motors can last until 211,500 miles as my Blazer motor did. Swap in a 3.4 & then have fun all over again!!