Looks like I will need a shorter timing chain setup on my line bored 351w roller block. According to my measurements, the crank is .005' closer to the cam. I already have a new bilet double roller timing set with Torrington thrust but the chain is too loose. I bought another timing set that was labeled .005" shorter and it looks like the only piece different from my standard length timing set is the upper cam sprocket, which has a "-5" on it after the standard part number ( otherwise same as my existing cam gear). The chain on this new set is the lower quality generic one found in the cheaper SA gear set, which isnt as nice as the German chain included with my existing timing set. I don't want to skimp on the chain. I've had bad luck with anything but the Rolon and Iwis brand chains.
Question I now have - is it safe to assume I can just run the other slightly larger diameter cam sprocket with my existing chain and lower crank pulley (given it fits well) or should I change out everything with a completely new "matched" set? The only brand of timing set I found that specifically says to not substitute components is Cloyes, but their stuff doesn't look like any of the other parts found in the common brands i.e. Comp Cams, Howards Cams, SA Gear, etc. If the only defining piece making the timing set shorter is the upper cam sprocket, shouldn't it be safe to just replace that piece if the timing set fits well and uses otherwise the other same labeled parts?
Question I now have - is it safe to assume I can just run the other slightly larger diameter cam sprocket with my existing chain and lower crank pulley (given it fits well) or should I change out everything with a completely new "matched" set? The only brand of timing set I found that specifically says to not substitute components is Cloyes, but their stuff doesn't look like any of the other parts found in the common brands i.e. Comp Cams, Howards Cams, SA Gear, etc. If the only defining piece making the timing set shorter is the upper cam sprocket, shouldn't it be safe to just replace that piece if the timing set fits well and uses otherwise the other same labeled parts?