Engine Timing Set Guide for 1960-1976 Plymouth Valiant
Keep your Valiant's Slant 6 or V8 engine running precisely with a reliable new timing set.
- Listen for a rattling noise from the front of the engine; it's the most common sign of a worn timing chain.
- For a stock Valiant, a standard replacement set from Melling or Cloyes is a reliable and cost-effective choice.
- If you have performance upgrades, choose a stronger double-roller timing set from a brand like Edelbrock.
- Always use a proper puller and installer for the harmonic balancer to avoid damaging the engine.
Is Your Plymouth Valiant's Timing Chain Failing?
The timing chains on the Plymouth Valiant's Slant 6 and small block V8 engines are durable, but they do wear out over many decades and miles. A stretched chain can alter your ignition and valve timing, causing a variety of problems. Since a complete failure can potentially ruin your engine, it's important to recognize the warning signs.
Common Failure Symptoms
- Rattling Noise from Engine Front: 🎬 Watch this teardown to hear and diagnose a noisy Slant 6. The most common sign is a metallic rattling or scraping sound coming from the timing cover on the front of the engine. This noise is often most noticeable when the engine is idling or during a cold start.
- Poor Engine Performance: A stretched chain can retard the camshaft timing, leading to a noticeable loss of power, sluggish acceleration, and poor fuel economy.
- Engine Misfires or Rough Idle: As the chain slack increases, the valve timing can become erratic, causing the engine to run rough, misfire, or idle poorly.
- Difficulty Starting: In advanced stages of wear, the camshaft and crankshaft can be so out of sync that the engine may crank but struggle to start, or not start at all.
- Metal Shavings in Oil: This is a critical sign. As the chain and gears wear, tiny metal particles can chip off and end up in the engine oil. You might see these during an oil change.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Timing Set
Since new original equipment (OEM) parts for these classic Valiants are generally not available, you will be choosing from aftermarket brands. The good news is that many aftermarket companies offer high-quality replacements that meet or exceed original standards.
Aftermarket Brand Tiers for Plymouth Valiant
| Brand Tier | Brands | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Replacement | Cloyes, Melling, INA | Stock or daily-driven Valiants. These brands are known for providing reliable, OEM-quality single-row timing sets that are affordable and durable for normal use. Cloyes was even an original supplier for some heavy-duty Mopar engines. |
| Performance Upgrade | Edelbrock, Melling Select Performance | Valiants with mild performance modifications like an upgraded camshaft, intake, or headers. These sets often feature a stronger double-roller chain design for improved timing accuracy and longevity under higher stress. |
Pro Tip: For a stock or near-stock engine, a quality standard replacement set from Melling or Cloyes is perfectly adequate. If you plan on performance upgrades, investing in a double-roller set from a brand like Edelbrock is a wise choice for added strength and timing stability.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide to installing a V8 timing set.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When should I replace my Valiant's timing chain? 🎬 See how to check for timing chain slack in five minutes.
There is no specific mileage interval. You should replace it when you notice symptoms like a rattling noise from the front of the engine, a loss of power, or if you are already rebuilding the engine. It's a preventative measure that can save you from a much bigger repair down the road.
What is the difference between a single-roller and double-roller chain?
A single-roller (or silent-type) chain is what came standard on most Valiants. It is quiet and reliable for stock power levels. A double-roller chain is wider and has two rows of rollers, making it significantly stronger and less prone to stretching. It's recommended for engines that are modified to produce more horsepower.
Do I need special tools for the replacement?
Yes. You will need a harmonic balancer puller to remove the crankshaft pulley and a harmonic balancer installer to put it back on. Using a hammer to install the balancer is strongly discouraged as it can damage the engine's thrust bearing. The rest of the job can be done with standard mechanic's tools.
Should I replace the water pump and seals at the same time?
Yes, it is highly recommended. The timing cover must be removed to access the timing set, and the water pump and front crankshaft seal are either part of the cover or mounted to it. Replacing these items while you have everything apart is cheap insurance against future leaks and saves you from having to do the same job twice.
Are there any recalls for the timing set on my Valiant?
No, searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database show no recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to the engine timing set for 1960-1976 Plymouth Valiants.
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Technical Specifications
Fits 170, 198, 225 c.i.d. Slant 6 engines and 273, 318 c.i.d. LA-series small block V8 engines. Sets include a camshaft sprocket, a crankshaft sprocket, and a timing chain. Available in standard single-row (silent type) or performance double-roller chain configurations.
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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.