A Comprehensive Guide to the Engine Timing Set for the 1960-1967 Dodge W300
Keep your classic Dodge W300's engine running strong and in perfect time with the right timing set.
- First, you must correctly identify your engine (Slant 6 or 318 V8) as timing sets are engine-specific.
- A quality aftermarket timing set is an upgrade over the original 1960s parts, especially sets with a double-roller chain and all-metal sprockets.
- Symptoms of a worn chain include a rattling noise from the front of the engine, rough idle, and wandering ignition timing marks.
- While replacing the timing set, it is best practice to also replace the water pump and timing cover gaskets to prevent future leaks.
Is This For Your Truck? First, Know Your Engine
Before buying a timing set, you must know which engine is in your 1960-1967 Dodge W300. The part is engine-specific, not one-size-fits-all. During this period, Dodge used a few different engines. The most common were the 225 cubic inch "Slant Six" and the 318 cubic inch "Poly" V8. A 318 LA series V8 was introduced in 1967. Check your truck's documentation or look for identifying marks on the engine itself to ensure you order the correct kit.
Symptoms of a Worn Timing Set
The original timing chains in these classic trucks, especially those with original nylon-coated cam gears, will wear out. A stretched chain can delay the camshaft's rotation, causing a number of problems. Look for these common signs:
- Rattling Noise from Engine Front: A loose timing chain can slap against the inside of the timing cover, creating a rattling or grinding noise, especially on startup and at idle.
- Rough Idle or Engine Vibration: When cam timing is off, the engine may idle poorly and feel rough.
- Loss of Power and Performance: A worn chain effectively retards your cam timing, which can reduce low-end torque and make the truck feel sluggish.
- Wandering Ignition Timing: This is a classic test. When checking ignition timing with a timing light, a loose chain will cause the timing mark on the harmonic balancer to jump around instead of holding steady. You can also check for slack by removing the distributor cap and turning the crankshaft back and forth by hand with a socket. If the crank pulley moves more than a few degrees before the distributor rotor begins to turn, the chain has excessive slack.
Critical Failure Warning
If a timing chain stretches too much, it can jump a tooth on a sprocket. This will cause the engine to run very poorly or not start at all. In a worst-case scenario for some engines, a broken chain can cause pistons to hit the valves, resulting in catastrophic engine damage.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Timing Set
For a vintage truck like the W300, new original equipment (OEM) parts are no longer available from the manufacturer. The good news is that high-quality aftermarket parts are readily available and are often an upgrade over the original 1960s technology.
Brand Quality Tiers
When shopping for a timing set, you'll find several trusted brands. They generally fall into two categories for your W300:
- Quality Standard Replacement (Melling, Cloyes): Both Melling and Cloyes have been making timing components for decades and are well-respected choices for a stock or lightly modified engine. They offer standard "silent" chains similar to the original, as well as heavy-duty double roller options. Forum users sometimes note Melling has very consistent quality control, while Cloyes is a historic brand that is also a reliable choice. For these classic engines, you can be confident with a kit from either brand.
- Performance Upgrade (Edelbrock, Melling Select Performance): If you are rebuilding your engine for more power, brands like Edelbrock offer high-strength performance timing sets. These kits often feature billet steel crank sprockets, iron cam sprockets, and premium roller chains designed to handle higher RPMs and more power. They also feature multiple keyways on the crank sprocket, allowing a builder to advance or retard cam timing to shift the engine's power band.
Pro Tip: Upgrade to a Double Roller
If you have the engine apart, it is highly recommended to upgrade from a standard silent chain to a "double roller" timing set. These sets have two rows of chain links and stronger sprockets. They are much more durable and resist stretch far better than the original style, ensuring your timing stays accurate for many more years and miles. The cost difference is often minimal.
| Part Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Aftermarket Standard Replacement Set | $40 - $80 |
| Aftermarket Double Roller / Performance Set | $80 - $170 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What comes in a typical engine timing set?
A standard 3-piece timing set includes the camshaft sprocket (the large gear), the crankshaft sprocket (the small gear), and the timing chain itself. Some more comprehensive kits for other vehicles might include tensioners or guides, but the simple Slant 6 and 318 Poly engines do not use them.
Is there a recall or TSB for the timing set on my W300?
No. There are no active recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Dodge or the NHTSA for the engine timing set on the 1960-1967 Dodge W300. Any failure is due to normal wear and tear over the vehicle's long life.
What else should I replace while changing the timing set?
The timing set is located behind the water pump and timing cover. It is highly recommended to replace the water pump, timing cover gasket, and front crankshaft seal at the same time. These parts must be removed to access the timing set anyway, so replacing them now saves you from having to do the job twice if they fail later.
Is an aftermarket timing set better than the original?
Yes. For these vintage trucks, a modern, quality aftermarket set is often an improvement. Many original Mopar engines of this era used a camshaft sprocket with nylon-coated teeth, which wear down and shed material into the oil pan. A new aftermarket set with all-metal sprockets is a significant durability upgrade.
Technical Specifications
Engine-specific fitment for Dodge Slant 6 (225) or V8 (318 Poly/LA) engines. Chain types include standard link-belt ('silent' chain) and double roller. Sprocket materials are typically cast iron for the camshaft and hardened or billet steel for the crankshaft.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.