Hey guys!

I am in the process of taking the head off to have it built after I overreved the engine after a third gear lock out. I have done a few timing chains on a few vehicles before and have owned a DSM for 12 years so I believe that I am competent to do the job, however even when searching on here there is a lot of different threads out there pertaining to the timing chain replacement, stretching and other matters. I would like to keep it simple and need the input of this community! My goal for the car is 500 hp on a DBB FP Black and it is my daily driver that will see occasional track days. Before the head went I collected most, if not all the parts needed but am not sure about the engine itself?

For the engine I was thinking to keep things simple and while I have the head off the block to replace all of the factory rod bolts with ARP's, I have done this before on a 2G DSM without ill effects. I was wondering if the same is possible to do on a X just by unbolting one stock rod bolt re-torqing the new ARP and so on? Also I have chosen to go with the Cosworth head gasket and a set of ARP head studs but I've noticed that there are two different types, I know one is thicker but which one do you guys recommend? For a goal of 500 hp do you guys recommend oversized valves and dual valve springs or stock sized valves and manley springs? I will not rev the car past 8K and think that I'll be running MX1's or Kelford 214-B's.

Also what do you guys recommend to replace on the timing chain side? The car has 78k on it however the inside of the engine is very clean in appearance due to my 3k oil changes. I was told just to replace the timing chain, tensioner and both chain guides? What about the oil pump chain and other parts? Does anyone have a comprehensive list of OEM part numbers and what does everyone seem to use for the RTV application OEM or ? special tools needed? I did read one detailed write up by hollywood but I guess the more input the better Is there a confirmed revised chain?

Any input is appreciated I just want to hear different opinions, also unfortunately there are absolutely no shops around my area that I would let touch my car and would like to do everything myself because I have done so in the past with my other cars with great success I am just a little nervous since this isn't a DSM and costs quite a bit more money...

Thanks!

 

Which write up of mine? The cam install one?

 

Yup, it is a very detailed write up however I still am not sure what most people replace when they are in my situation. From what I have seen it would appear that most mainly just replace just the timing chain and don't bother with anything else like the water pump or oil pump chain?

 

Do the oil pump chain as well, water pump is fine I'll bet they last a long time the way they are built. Look over your exhaust side MIVEC gear for cracks and wear on the shell. Other than that all is good.... oh check tappet lash while your there!

 

Will do!! Thank you and I trust your opinion very much because you seem to be very meticulous with your work!