TIMING CHAIN -VS- GEAR DRIVE

[HOLY TERROR-BU]

I'm looking to switch out the double roller timing chain, and go to a gear drive setup. I've spoke to couple engine builders...and people in general, and they are flat out, against the gear drive. Yeah..I like the "noise" but I always thought, it's so accurate.
I'm basically, looking for opinions (or experiences) using both setups.

 

[Ed Cannon]

I had a quiet Pete Jackson drive in a 67 Nova. Waste of money. Get a quality chain and forget it. And put the rest of the $ in your pocket.

 

[bowtie81]

I had a quiet Pete Jackson drive in a 67 Nova. Waste of money. Get a quality chain and forget it. And put the rest of the $ in your pocket.

x2

 

[91hrdbdy]

okay let me ask both of you WHY?

 

[bowtie81]

okay let me ask both of you WHY?

I've heard of the teeth breaking under heavy loads and rpm for extended periods.
They are fine for street use

 

[melloelky]

one would think that if timing gears were so good that every oe would use them over a chain or a belt.right?wrong.as far as it being so accurate,is this the type of build that needs timing THAT accurate?not likely.i can't see a chain stretching THAT much in any amount of time where you'll notice it. yea the noisy design sounds cool for less than a week then it's an annoyance.you'll be looking for louder mufflers.save your money,buy a double roller.

 

[lasttime78]

Joel, if your just building yourself a nice street car and not going to be going to the track all the time.Go for the gear drive, I had one it was fine no issues. It was the loud one, I was young to. I have never seen one go bad, I have heard of guys breaking the camshafts and all. never seen it though. Like I said if it's just a nice street rod you should be fine!

 

[lasttime78]

Or go for a nice Cloyes double roller.

 

[HOLY TERROR-BU]

I have a double roller in the motor already! I just wasn't sure what the benefits (of any) of the gear drive over the the timing chain...or vice versa. Thanks for all the info/experiences. It really helps in decision making!

 

[HOLY TERROR-BU]

Yes! It's a street car. I might do occasional strip...not much at all!