Pontiac GTO Engine Timing Set Guide (1964-1974)
Keep your GTO's classic V8 running strong by understanding its timing set needs.
- Assume any original engine has a failure-prone nylon cam gear and should be replaced.
- Any aftermarket all-metal timing set is an upgrade over the original design for this vehicle.
- For most owners, a quality standard replacement set from a brand like Melling or Cloyes is sufficient.
- While replacing the timing set, also replace the timing cover seal and consider a new water pump.
Is Your GTO's Timing Chain on its Way Out?
A failing timing set gives clear warning signs. If your GTO's engine has started to run poorly, makes rattling noises, or misfires, the timing chain could be the cause. Because the original camshaft gears used nylon-coated teeth to keep them quiet, they are a common failure point after decades of use. Age and heat make the nylon brittle, causing teeth to break off. This can cause the chain to jump a tooth, throwing off engine timing, or worse, the broken pieces can fall into the oil pan and clog the oil pump pickup tube, starving the engine of oil.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Timing Set
For the 1964-1974 GTO, nearly any aftermarket timing set is an upgrade over the original nylon-toothed gear. Aftermarket sets use durable all-metal (iron or steel) sprockets. The main choice is between a standard "silent" link-type chain and a more robust double-roller chain.
- Standard Replacement (Link-Type): These are similar in design to the original chain but paired with all-metal gears. Brands like Melling and Cloyes offer quality OE-replacement style sets that are excellent for stock or mildly modified engines. They are quiet and reliable for street driving.
- Performance (Double Roller): For high-performance builds or for owners seeking maximum durability, a double roller timing set is the preferred choice. These sets feature a stronger, two-row roller chain that reduces stretch and provides more accurate timing under high RPM and load. Brands like Cloyes, Edelbrock, and Melling Select Performance offer high-quality double roller sets. Some forum users have noted that Edelbrock sets can occasionally have fitment issues, so checking the part upon arrival is wise.
| Tier | Brands | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Replacement | Cloyes, Melling, INA | $36 - $70 | Stock engines, daily drivers |
| Street Performance | Cloyes, Edelbrock, Melling | $70 - $120 | Mildly modified engines, enhanced durability |
| High Performance/Billet | Melling Select Performance, Rollmaster | $120 - $297 | Stroker engines, racing, maximum adjustability |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any recalls for the 1964-1974 GTO timing set?
No, searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database show no recalls for the timing set on 1964-1974 Pontiac GTOs. This is not surprising for a vehicle of this age.
Why do original Pontiac timing gears fail?
The original camshaft sprocket had nylon-coated teeth. General Motors used this design to reduce engine noise. After many years and heat cycles, the nylon becomes brittle and breaks away from the metal gear. This can cause the timing chain to become loose and jump time, or the nylon pieces can clog the oil pump pickup, leading to catastrophic engine failure from oil starvation.
Should I get a standard chain or a double roller chain?
For a stock or near-stock engine used for cruising, a quality standard replacement set with a link-type chain and all-metal gears is perfectly adequate and quiet. If you have a modified engine, plan to race, or simply want the strongest option, a double roller chain is a worthwhile upgrade for its superior strength and resistance to stretching.
Is an OEM timing set better than aftermarket?
In this specific case, no. Aftermarket timing sets are considered a significant upgrade because they replace the failure-prone original nylon-toothed camshaft gear with a durable all-metal gear. New Old Stock (NOS) OEM parts would still have the original nylon gear, which is likely brittle from age alone.
Technical Specifications
Fits 1964-1974 Pontiac V8 engines (389, 400, 455 c.i.d.). Aftermarket sets are available with standard link-type chains or heavy-duty double roller chains. Sprockets are made of cast iron or billet steel.
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.