[Rick_L]

Good article. Shows there are several variations in design - and they affect strength and chain life.

I've never seen a chain with a "split roller", though they probably exist. But there are many other variations, as described in the article.

The Cloyes "true roller" is definitely the standard of the industry - and has been for about 50 years. The only setups that really challenge it are totally different designs, like gears or belts. Most race engines use either a Jesel or Comp Cams belt these days, but they've never caught on for the street.

 

[Rick_L]

"Flat tappet" timing chain? Why would it be different?

(Hint: it's not.)

 

[Rick_L]

Well you guys are right. So was I, but I was thinking in a different perspective. I was thinking early blocks vs. late blocks, not flat vs. roller. You can put either in either block with the correct combination of parts. Rollers in early blocks were not factory. Flat tappets in later blocks were used as well as rollers - most truck TBI engines were flat tappet.

 

[Rick_L]

No, an aftermarket roller cam for an early block has the same bolt pattern as the flat tappet cam for an early block.

The distinction goes to the block configuration, not the camshaft style. Block, cam core, and timing set must all match.