Chrysler LeBaron Engine Timing Set Guide for 1977-1981 V8 & Slant-Six Models
Keep your classic RWD LeBaron running strong by understanding when and how to replace your engine's timing set.
- This guide is only for 1977-1981 RWD LeBarons with Slant-Six or V8 engines; 1982+ models use a different timing belt system.
- A rattling noise from the front of the engine is the most common symptom of a worn timing chain.
- Replacing the original nylon-toothed cam gear with an all-metal aftermarket set is a crucial reliability upgrade.
- Always replace the chain and both gears together as a complete set.
Is Your LeBaron's Timing Chain Failing?
The timing chain is a wear item. Over many miles, the chain stretches and the gear teeth wear down. On these classic Chrysler engines, a common point of failure is the original camshaft gear, which often had nylon-coated teeth. With age, this nylon becomes brittle, breaks off, and can clog the oil pump pickup screen, starving the engine of oil. Listen and feel for these warning signs:
Key Failure Symptoms
- Rattling Noise: A distinct rattling or slapping sound from the front of the engine, especially when it's idling or right after starting, is the most common sign. This is the sound of the loose chain hitting the inside of the timing cover.
- Poor Engine Performance: A stretched chain retards the camshaft timing, leading to a loss of power, especially at low RPMs. You may notice sluggish acceleration, hesitation, or a rough, unstable idle.
- Metal Shavings in Oil: When you change your oil, look for small metallic or plastic specks in the drained oil. These are bits of the worn gears and chain.
- Wandering Ignition Timing: If you check the ignition timing with a timing light, a worn chain will cause the timing mark to jump around erratically instead of holding steady.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Timing Set
For a vehicle of this age, new original Mopar parts are not a practical option. The aftermarket offers excellent solutions that often exceed the quality of the original parts, especially those with nylon gears. Your choice depends on your budget and how you use your LeBaron.
Standard Replacement Brands
These brands are ideal for a daily driver or standard restoration, offering a balance of quality and cost. They are a significant upgrade over a worn original set.
- Melling: A well-respected name in engine components, especially oil pumps. Their standard timing sets are considered a reliable choice for stock engine rebuilds.
- Cloyes: Another long-standing brand in timing components. While many have used their parts successfully, some forum users have noted occasional quality control issues, so it's wise to inspect the parts upon arrival.
Heavy-Duty & Performance Upgrade Brands
If you are rebuilding your engine for more power or simply want the most durable option, these are excellent choices. They typically feature all-metal gears and stronger chains.
- Melling Select Performance: This is Melling's premium line, offering higher-strength components for greater durability under stress.
- Edelbrock: Known for performance parts, Edelbrock offers high-quality "True Roller" timing sets. These often feature a double-roller chain and all-steel gears, which significantly reduce chain stretch and improve timing accuracy over the life of the engine.
Estimated Costs for Timing Set Replacement
| Part or Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Timing Set | $32 - $168 |
| Shop Labor | $500 - $1,000 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $532 - $1,168 |
Cost estimates are for reference only and will vary based on your location, the specific parts chosen, and your mechanic's labor rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace just the chain?
No. The timing chain and gears wear together as a set. Installing a new chain on old, worn sprockets will cause the new chain to wear out very quickly. Always replace the chain and both gears at the same time.
Is this a good DIY project?
For an experienced home mechanic, yes. The job requires draining the cooling system, removing the accessory belts, radiator, water pump, and harmonic balancer before you can access the timing cover. You will need a good set of tools, including a harmonic balancer puller. For beginners, this job is likely too complex.
What's the difference between a timing set and a timing belt?
Your 1977-1981 LeBaron uses a metal timing chain and gears (a "set") located inside the engine and lubricated by engine oil. The 1982 and newer FWD LeBarons use a rubber timing belt that is outside the engine and is a different part entirely. This guide is only for the timing chain and gear set.
Should I get a single-roller or double-roller chain?
For a stock engine, a quality single-roller (or "silent" link-type) chain is perfectly adequate. A double-roller chain, like those found in Edelbrock kits, is a heavy-duty upgrade that offers more strength and stability, making it a great choice for performance applications or for maximum longevity.
Technical Specifications
Vehicle application is limited to 1977-1981 Chrysler LeBaron models equipped with the 225 cu. in. (3.7L) Slant-Six, 318 cu. in. (5.2L) V8, or 360 cu. in. (5.9L) V8 engines. These systems use a timing chain and gear set. Aftermarket sets are available in standard link-type or upgraded roller and double-roller chain designs.
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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.