The timing set connects your crankshaft (the muscle) to your camshaft (the brain). If this link gets sloppy, your cam timing changes, your power drops, and in worst-case scenarios, your pistons high-five your valves.
For the new generation, you usually see three options: Single Roller, Double Roller, and the loud-mouth Gear Drive.
Here is the no-nonsense guide to keeping your engine in time.
1. The Stock Option: Single Roller
The “Daily Driver”
This is what the factory put in your Small Block Chevy. It’s a single chain, usually with a nylon-coated gear to be quiet.
- The Good: Cheap and quiet. Fits under any cover.
- The Bad: It stretches. After 50,000 miles, that chain gets loose.
- The Reality: Loose chain = Retarded cam timing. Your snappy throttle response disappears, and the engine feels lazy.
- Verdict: Only for stock restorations or budget flips.
2. The Street Standard: Double Roller
The “Cheap Insurance”
This is the gold standard for any hot rod. It features two rows of chains side-by-side.
- The Good: Twice the strength, half the stretch. It keeps your cam timing rock-steady at high RPM.
- The “True Roller” Upgrade: Look for a set labeled “True Roller.” This means the links spin on actual roller bearings (like a bicycle chain) to reduce friction.
- The Watch-Out: On some older blocks, a fat double roller might rub the engine block or the timing cover. You might need to grind a tiny bit of metal or “clearance” the cover with a hammer.
- Verdict: The best choice for 99% of street builds.
3. The Noise Maker: Gear Drive
The “Whiner”
Instead of a chain, this setup uses steel gears that mesh directly together to spin the cam.
- The Good: It is incredibly accurate. Gears don’t stretch like chains do.
- The Vibe: NOISE. “Noisy” gear drives are designed to sound like a supercharger whine. Some guys love it; some guys get a headache after 10 minutes.
- The Bad: Because it’s metal-on-metal, it transfers all the engine’s harmonic vibrations straight into the valvetrain. This can sometimes hurt sensitive cam bearings or lifters on a street car over a long time.
- Verdict: Run it if you need that sound. Otherwise, stick to a chain.
The Dream Factory Verdict
Don’t overthink it.
- Building a cruiser? Get a high-quality Double Roller (Cloyes or Comp Cams). It’s $40–$60 well spent.
- Want people to look at you at the gas station? Get a Gear Drive. Just bring earplugs.
Steel & Soul – Dream Factory Garage