Double Timing Chain LT1/4

[EricVonHa]

Is there such an animal? I have a '93 LT1 and am wondering if a double timing chain is available for the optispark setup. Surely, if it was a non-opti setup the double chain and gears would not be an issue. However, I have not yet seen a cam gear specifically made for the opti shaft that has the dual chain setup. Anyone?

 

[UB2 SLOW]

Sorry, I have no idea. I just kept it simple and went with an Extreme Duty Chain. Of course we could be talking apples and oranges.

 

[Vettelt193]

I assume you are running a really radical setup? The best you can really get is a single roller heavy duty (at least the last time i checked)

 

[Wheelie]

Eric,

You have to change your Opti to a newer version. Check TPIS or Lingenfelter online and you will see a double chain set offered for '94 - '96 models.
You have to change the front cover, opti-spark, and cam gear locating pin. The newer opti drives off the timing gear locating pin as opposed to the toothed shaft that drives the older models.
It's been a year since I did the research so I don't remember the particulars but it can be done.

Steve

 

[Wheelie]

Whoops!

I just checked both Lingenfelter and TPIS and found no Opti-Spark info. I'll do a little digging and see if I can find a source for you.

 

[jmccloud]

Double Roller Timing Chain

SLP sells a LT1/LS1 double roller chain and two sprocket (crank & cam) set for $170 (saw it in a 1996 & up catalog).
I don't know what other changes the various older models need to accomodate the added thickness. The SLP site might show it or their tech assist might help.
John

 

[EricVonHa]

Thanks guys. This gives me a good idea to start looking. I haven't taken the motor apart as of yet but I do know that the timing chain has broken. One broken pushrod is the only thing that I've seen so far by removing one of the valve covers. I'm sure there is a lot more damage but just haven't gotten to it yet. If I have to I'll switch to the newer opti.

One thing I've been thinking about is modifying the standard double roller chevy timing gear by machining in the splined shaft opening. A competent machine shop should be able to do it. I'm running an electric water pump so the cam gear isn't needed to drive the pump anymore.

I'll keep you posted as I move forward.

-E

 

[NinetyFiveVette]

To run a double roller, you must go to an electric water pump. I have not seen a double roller that is LT1 specific that includes the water pump straight cut gear on the back.

I am using a Cloyes double roller ($79 @ Summit) on my LT1 and I also have a Meziere electric water pump. I had the machine shop at work make an aluminum plug to fill the hole left behind from the water pump drive on the timing cover.

I have seen the Meziere on ebay lately for $179, but CSI also makes an LT1 electric pump motor that is $139 that the Camaro guys like.

The added bonus of going with an electric water pump motor is that it has been proven by many owners on dynos to free a minimum of 10hp.

I have a 95, so I cannot comment on the optispark needing an update.

Anyway, good luck.