Changing the timing chain on my 89 4Runner, but when I put the timing chain, purchased from Napa on, it is to short. I can't install the chain guides. I measure the chain against the one that came off, and it appears to be 1 or 2 links shorter. I looked for the "Laser" block identifier on the exhaust side and it is there, so I assume that the block is a 85-95 22RE block. Please help me figure this out.

Thanks

 

Maybe you just got the wrong chain boxed in the correct box.

it happens try another one .

This is why for engine parts I always get the parts from Engine Builder

The guides really have nothing to do with putting the chain on .

the timing set both gears on the chain just slide it on .

 

The first one I tried was the same way. It was from Ebay, then I went to NAPA, and it does the same darn thing.

 

I just put one on. I thought it was to shot as well. what i ended up doing is compressing the tensioner. then almost putting the cam shaft sprocket on and using the bolt to pull it on. It is/was very tight.

 

Can someone ensure I am not messed up, I looked at all the marks on the Block and Head, everything tells me 85-95 22R-E.

 

The way I tell an 85-95 block is on the passenger side you will have mounting studs for a fuel filter and around the oil filter will be a place to install a Knock Sensor.

If it has a factory Timing Chain Cover, below is what I have for information on Timing Covers.

Copied from my build thread.

84 and older. 22r has no dimples/circles and the number "2" on it. Twistedyota got it right on the height thing, see the last picture for a good example. I also tried to mark which bolt holes for removing the timing cover on down the road when I have to do a chain again. Hope it wont burn off but it if does I tried to come up with an easier way. Never can remember which bolts they are.


22re has "6k" and dimples/circles. 85 and up.


Here is what I am talking about on the 1/8th inch height. I used a lockwasher to help show how much of a difference. This cover is 84 or older. Seems like the oil pump bolts were to short. Hope this will save some one some trouble. It is an early model 22r timing cover on a newer 22 block.

 

Ok, solved. I do have a 85-95 Block and head. This Timing chain was just super tight.

Install guides, line up and chain, had to use "finesse" to get it on the camshaft. Then install the tensioner, it also need some "finesse" to get lined up.

The reason I changed it was ping/knock when I would rev up the engine. Come to find out, the DSPO(Dope smoking previous owner) had at some point already replaced it. WITH A 83-84 98 link chain. 85-95 requires a 96 link chain. Don't know how it was even running. Oh, wait, yes I do, NOT VERY GOOD.