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Cloyes timing chain, not for roller motors? (FORD)

1.3K views 2 replies 2 participants last post by  srry  
#1 ·
I'm shopping for a shortened timing chain set for my 302/347 SBF build after discovering that my Cloyes Street Roller has a load of slop in it from the align hone I had done on the block. There's like a 1/2" of play in the chain, maybe more.

Anyway, the cheapest one I can find is this Cloyes Original True Roller set. However, it specifically states that it is NOT for use on roller-cam engines. I'm just trying to figure out why this is, and if it would even apply to me. I'm actually using a block from 1978, and utilizing linked retrofit roller lifters with a Comp Cams roller camshaft made of (apparently) cast material. As such, I'm planning on using the original cast thrust plate as well. Given all this, is there any reason the Cloyes set would not work? Am I right in assuming that newer roller motors are equipped with billet steel camshafts and thrust plates from the factory, and this difference of materials is the source of the incompatibility? Or are there some other physical differences preventing this? I know Ford has made some really confusing changes over time, but I'm hoping somebody with more experience can clear this up.
 
#2 ·
I believe they're refering to "factory" rollers, not aftermarket. The front of the cams are different.

Comp, Liberty, also offer the Cloyes chain sets. Actually, the chain itself is the same. The crank gear is a little larger in diameter to compensate for the shorter cam-to-crank center. (at least on most of the sets I've seen)

Jim
 
#3 ·
What is different about the front of the cams?

My cam is not a "retrofit" item specifically, only the lifters are. The cam itself is designed to be used on modern roller 5.0 motors, and is compatible with fuel injection, but the Cloyes timing set I have on it now has physically fit on both this cam and an old hydraulic flat tappet cam from a '69 motor. Are aftermarket cams somehow redesigned to be compatible with any year of timing set?