Engine Timing Chain
COMP Cams 3158KT Adjustable Single Roller Timing Chain Set for GM LS Engines
COMP Cams 3100KT Adjustable Double Roller Timing Set for Small Block Chevy 265-400
COMP Cams 2100 Magnum Double Row Timing Chain Set for Chevy Small Block 265-400
COMP Cams 2136 Magnum Double Row Timing Chain Set for Small Block Chevy 305-350
COMP Cams 2120 Magnum Double Row Timing Chain Set for Ford Small Block V8
COMP Cams 710-1 Keyway Adjustable Billet Timing Set for Chevy 454-502 Gen VI
COMP Cams 7100 Keyway Adjustable Billet Timing Set for Chevy SBC 265-400
COMP Cams 2113 Magnum Double Row Timing Chain Set for Oldsmobile 260-455
COMP Cams 3110KT Adjustable Double Roller Timing Set for Big Block Chevy 396-454
COMP Cams 3207 High Energy Timing Chain Set for Chevrolet 350 LT1
COMP Cams 9672T3 Timing Chain Set 3-Keyway Single Roller LS Engine 58x Reluctor
COMP Cams 7103 Keyway Adjustable Billet Timing Set Chrysler 273-360
COMP Cams 2135 Magnum Double Roller Timing Chain Set for Ford 351W
COMP Cams 3113KT Adjustable Double Roller Timing Set For Oldsmobile 400-455
COMP Cams 3110KT-5 Adjustable Double Roller Timing Set .005" Undersized BBC 396-454
COMP Cams 3110KT-10 Adjustable Double Roller Timing Set .010" Undersized Big Block Chevy
COMP Cams 3149KT Double Roller Timing Set BB Chevy 454 502 Gen VI Adjustable
COMP Cams 3125KT Adjustable Double Roller Timing Set Three-Bolt Chrysler 383-440
COMP Cams 2109 Magnum Double Row Timing Chain Set for Chrysler 383-440 426 Hemi
COMP Cams 3167KT Adjustable Single Roller Timing Chain Set for GM LS7
COMP Cams 3172KT Adjustable Single Roller Timing Chain Set for GM LS 58x 3-Bolt
What Is an Engine Timing Chain?
The engine timing chain is one of the most critical components in your vehicle's valve train system. Working in concert with the crankshaft and camshaft sprockets, the timing chain synchronizes the rotation of these two vital shafts so that your engine's intake and exhaust valves open and close at precisely the right moments during each combustion cycle. Without this synchronization, your engine simply cannot run — and in interference-type engines, a failed or jumped timing chain can cause catastrophic internal damage, including bent valves or worse.
Why Timing Chain Condition Matters
Unlike timing belts, which are made of reinforced rubber and require scheduled replacement, timing chains are metal-link components designed to last the life of the engine under proper maintenance. However, they are not immune to wear. Over time, chain stretch, worn guides, or a failing tensioner can allow the chain to slip, causing the engine to run rough, trigger check-engine codes related to cam/crank correlation, or rattle on cold starts. Recognizing these warning signs early and replacing a worn timing chain set can save you from a much more expensive repair down the road.
What to Look for When Shopping Timing Chains
When selecting a replacement timing chain, it's important to consider the entire system — not just the chain itself. Most quality replacements come as part of a complete timing chain kit that includes the chain, drive sprockets, tensioner, and guide rails. Matching all components to your specific engine application ensures proper fit, tension, and longevity. Key factors to evaluate include:
- Material and construction: Look for precision-engineered link plates and hardened pins that resist stretch and wear under high-heat conditions.
- OE fit: Choose components that meet or exceed the original equipment specifications for your vehicle's make, model, and engine code.
- Complete kit vs. individual parts: Replacing guides, tensioners, and sprockets along with the chain is generally best practice, since worn adjacent components accelerate chain wear.
- Application-specific design: Some engines use single-row, double-row, or roller-style timing chains — verify the correct type for your application.
Top Timing Chain Brands
Cloyes is the dominant name in the timing chain category and for good reason. With decades of specialization in timing drive systems, Cloyes offers a comprehensive range of timing chain kits engineered to OE specifications, making them a go-to choice for professional technicians and serious DIYers alike.
INA, part of the global Schaeffler Group, brings German engineering precision to the timing chain market. INA is widely recognized as an OE supplier to major European and domestic automakers, so their aftermarket timing components reflect true factory-level quality and dimensional accuracy.
iwis is a Munich-based chain specialist with over a century of chain manufacturing expertise. Their automotive timing chains are found in OE applications across numerous European vehicle platforms, and their aftermarket products carry that same pedigree of precision and durability.