Topic: updated opinion on single VS dual timing chain

[austintaco]

I have spent a few nights reading about different engine mods that I can do to my 84 non lazer block 22r. I am waiting to get the head back now, and while its off, we are going to go ahead and do the timing chain. At first, I thought I would just do the dual row, but the last comment I read on the subject suggested using the single row with metal guides. That came from Marlin on here, so I respect his opinion as well as that of other members.
Does the extra weight of a dual row impact the engine?
Is a good HD single row with metal guides a better way to go?

Thanks in advance.

[emsvitil]

Dual-row with metal guides............

[79coyotefrg]

with the block you have just get a stock 80 model dual row chain set.  a 20R timing kit should bolt right on.

I love Marlin but i wont give up my dual row chain

[kneedownnate]

I've pulled over 370,000 miles out of a stock 2 row timing chain set in an 81 22r.    Could have pulled more miles but had lower end bearings go out from having coolant mix with the oil.

[austintaco [OP]]

sounds like you just can't beat the reliability of the dual row setup. I had always said that I would install a dual row when it was time, but then I read that one comment by Marlin and it had me thinking otherwise. Cool. Now, I know. If anyone has any other thoughts on the subject, I am listening.

Thanks

[brainlessfool]

dual.

[emsvitil]

If you're stuck with a single row (later blocks and no LC dual-row conversion) you need at least the metal guides.

When toyota went to the single row chain (old block), did they goto the plastic guides at the same time?
Or did the plastic guides also come out with the new block?

[kneedownnate]

Pretty sure my 81 dual row had plastic guides, but it's been years since I've looked and the short block is over 20 feet away so...

[herpestes]

also don't forget if converting a 83-84 22r will also need to change the oil pump drive on the crank

[austintaco [OP]]

also don't forget if converting a 83-84 22r will also need to change the oil pump drive on the crank

thanks for the reminder. I need to add that one to the ever growing list of parts. I can't wait to get the truck back together.

[emsvitil]

See how much it costs to shorten the original oil pump drive........

[bleakhorizon]

i am a fan of the dual row chain.... but of course they used single row chains for how many years.... so they must work decently... of course then again they put the plastic guides in there tooo.......

Did the early engines have metal guides?