Dodge W350 Engine Timing Set Guide for 5.2L & 5.9L V8 (1981-1993)
Keep your classic Dodge V8 running strong by learning to spot a bad timing set and choosing the right replacement.
- This guide is only for the 5.2L (318) and 5.9L (360) V8 gas engines, not the Cummins diesel.
- Symptoms of failure include engine rattle, rough running, and wandering ignition timing marks.
- A quality aftermarket double roller timing set from a brand like Melling or Edelbrock is a recommended upgrade over stock.
- Always replace the water pump and timing cover gaskets during this job to prevent future leaks and labor costs.
Is This Guide For Your Truck?
This information is for the 1981-1993 Dodge W350 equipped with the 5.2L (318) or 5.9L (360) gasoline V8 engines. If your truck is a 1989 or newer model with the 5.9L Cummins diesel, this guide does not apply. The Cummins 6BT engine uses a highly durable set of timing gears, not a chain, which rarely needs service unless the engine is undergoing a complete rebuild.
Symptoms of a Worn Timing Chain
The original timing chains on these LA-series engines can stretch over many miles. Some original gears even had nylon-coated teeth that wear down, creating slack in the chain. When the chain becomes loose, it can affect ignition timing and valve operation, leading to noticeable problems.
- Engine Rattle on Startup: A brief rattling sound from the front of the engine that may disappear as oil pressure builds.
- Rough Idle and Poor Performance: A stretched chain can retard cam timing, causing a rough idle, hesitation, and a general loss of power.
- Backfiring Through Carburetor: Incorrect valve timing can cause the engine to backfire through the intake.
- Wandering Ignition Timing: If you check the ignition timing with a timing light, the mark on the harmonic balancer may appear to jump around erratically instead of holding steady. This is a classic sign of a loose timing chain.
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, a broken chain or severely jumped timing can cause pistons to hit valves, resulting in catastrophic engine damage.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Timing Set
For this generation of Dodge trucks, a quality aftermarket timing set is often an upgrade over the original factory parts. Look for sets with all-metal sprockets and consider a "double roller" chain design for increased strength and longevity.
Brand Quality Tiers
Standard Replacement (Good):
- Melling: A well-regarded brand for engine components. Forum users and mechanics have noted that Melling timing sets often provide a tight, precise fit right out of the box and represent good quality for the price.
- Cloyes: Historically a top name in timing components. While still a popular choice, some recent reports mention concerns about quality control, with some new chains having excessive slack. It is a viable option, but it's wise to inspect the parts for fit and finish before installation.
- INA: Often a supplier of original equipment parts to manufacturers, INA is known for producing reliable, stock-replacement quality components.
Premium / Performance (Better):
- Edelbrock: Frequently recommended on Mopar forums for its high quality and durability. Edelbrock's "True Roller" sets are considered a significant upgrade that can last for well over 100,000 miles, making them a great choice for a rebuilt engine or a long-term repair.
- Melling Select Performance: This is Melling's higher-tier product line, offering enhanced materials and precision for heavy-duty or performance applications.
Pro Tip: Double Roller vs. Silent Chain
Many original engines used a "silent" or link-belt style chain for quiet operation. An aftermarket double roller chain is stronger and more durable, making it a smart upgrade. It may produce a very slight whirring noise compared to the original, but the trade-off is significantly better reliability.
Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost to replace the timing set can vary based on the parts you choose and local labor rates. The job requires draining the coolant and removing several components from the front of the engine.
| Part or Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Timing Set | $32 - $168 |
| Shop Labor | $450 - $700 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $482 - $868 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace my water pump at the same time?
Yes, it is highly recommended. The timing chain replacement requires removing the water pump. Since you are already paying for the labor to access it, replacing the water pump at the same time is cost-effective and prevents having to do the job twice if the pump fails later.
Is a double roller chain better than a single roller?
For the V8 engines in these trucks, a double roller chain provides more strength and durability than a standard single roller or link-type chain. It's a worthwhile upgrade for longevity, especially if you use your truck for towing or hauling.
Are there any recalls on the timing chain for my W350?
No, there have been no recalls issued by the NHTSA for timing chain failures on 1981-1993 Dodge W350 trucks with gasoline engines.
Can I replace just the chain and not the sprockets?
This is not recommended. A worn chain will cause abnormal wear on the teeth of the sprockets. Installing a new chain on old, worn sprockets will cause the new chain to wear out very quickly and can lead to improper timing. Always replace the chain and sprockets as a matched set.
Technical Specifications
This vehicle uses a timing chain and sprocket set. The two primary engine options are the 5.2L (318 c.i.d.) and 5.9L (360 c.i.d.) Chrysler LA-series V8s. Aftermarket upgrades often include double roller chains and all-steel sprockets, sometimes with multiple keyways for adjustable cam timing.
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.
- Dodge W350: