How much slack in a 289 timing chain?

[Fredo]

I have a 66 Mustang with a 289 and I took off the oil pan to put in a new rear main seal and noticed I have about 1/2" of play in my timing chain. Does anyone know what the spec is? This seems like a bit much?

 

[Ronstang]

It really is not that much, especially if it is an OEM type of chain.

 

[iskwezm]

for the price of a chain,just replace it while your in there.

 

[mustangdave]

1/2" is the maximum.

 

[Fredo]

Thankyou, I think I will go ahead and replace it to be safe.

 

[65ShelbyClone]

1/2" is the maximum.

I think I saw " 1/2 inch maximum" in one of my early Mustang manuals, so I agree.

 

[Fredo]

Whats the best timing chain to go with? I have heard that double rollers are good? Any specific brand good?

 

[coolblue65]

Pretty much any double roller is good, mostly a matter of brand preference. I used the edelbrock one.

 

[68 Coop]

Cloyes, and they make either the Summit or Edelbrock chain, but I'm not sure which.

 

[Max Power]

My philosophy is that if you can see the chain, replace the chain. It's too much work not to.

 

[Route666]

Max, that sounds like effective, simple thinking. I like it. Why bother thinking about whether you should replace it and worrying about it later. Just do it.

 

[WORTH]

My philosophy is that if you can see the chain, replace the chain. It's too much work not to.

I'll give you an AMEN on that