SBC Idler gears

[Bliggida]

Since part of my engine failure might be a thrown timing chain. I got to thinking if it was possible to fabricate and machine a Small Block Chevy Idler Gear setup onto a 231. Is the 3800II based off of (the 3800 1 - I know but,) the 90 degree Chevy V6? I haven't had the chance to look at the front timing cover so I can't tell by looking at this point.

Just wondered if anyone knew its a possibility.

[Dominic]

We don't have nylon teeth and we have a tensioner on our timing chains, it is highly unlikely your timing chain jumped a tooth like the old nylon geared kind used to.

Sure, you could fabricate one, but its definetly not a weakness of the 3.8L [img]graemlins/thumbsup.gif[/img]

[Bliggida]

idler gears are stronger, but that's not why they are neccesarily installed. The timing accuracy is the sought after advantage.

[Bliggida]

I was looking at the parts index catalog, and it lists whats there, but there is no accurate picture.

Timing chains don't slip like timing belts do. But it is still a possibility. A simple bind in the chain can cause a link to snap. So, like I said I still don't know for sure. Really need to take a look.

[Dominic]

<blockquote>quote:</font><hr>Originally posted by Bliggida:
I was looking at the parts index catalog, and it lists whats there, but there is no accurate picture.

Timing chains don't slip like timing belts do. But it is still a possibility. A simple bind in the chain can cause a link to snap. So, like I said I still don't know for sure. Really need to take a look.<hr></blockquote>

Well thats true, and yes gears are more accurate [img]smile.gif[/img] Hell I'd love to have a geardrive but I just don't see it happening. The double roller setup is an insane $500 for our 3.8 right now... very much not worth it.