Timing Chain Slack
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It's very easy & informative to check the slack in a V8 timing chain occasionally, and it only requires removing the distributor cap so that a pointer can be attached to the shaft (or rotor). Rotate the crankshaft forward slowly until the timing indicator is exactly on zero. Attach the pointer to the distributor shaft so it's close to some reference point. Then rotate the crankshaft backward JUST until the pointer barely moves. Read the degrees of slack from the timing scale. 2 is about as little as possible with new gears & chain. At 5, replacement should be considered. At 8, the engine is probably running so poorly that it will be apparent.
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5.0L/5.8L Timing Pointer F1TZ6023A/E3AZ6023A, Jegs
55550309 
