Timing chain - how loose is too loose?


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By Greg D - 15 Years Ago
Opened my 64's 292 basically for new seals & gaskets - it ran good but leaked in alot of places.

Pulled the timing cover today.

The chain & gears don't look too worn but I have about 1/4" of flex in the chain.

Is this too much or can I leave it in there?

Thanks
By Teros292 - 15 Years Ago
Shop manual says that if the slack exceeds 1/2" then replace timing chain.
By PF Arcand - 15 Years Ago
On timing chain slack. Does it matter when checking it, whether it's on the tension or slack side of the chain?
By Ted - 15 Years Ago
PF Arcand (7/4/2010)
On timing chain slack. Does it matter when checking it, whether it's on the tension or slack side of the chain?
Yes.  You always check the cam timing while rotating the engine in the direction it normally turns (CW when looking from the front).  This insures that the camshaft via the timing chain is preloaded or tensioned in the same direction as when the engine is running.
By Greg D - 15 Years Ago
Straight edge on the chain over the sprockets, push with a screwdriver - I have about 3/16"?