Dodge B350 Engine Timing Set Replacement Guide (1981-1994)
Keep your classic Dodge van's LA-series V8 running strong by understanding when and how to replace your engine timing set.
- A rattling noise from the front of the engine is the most common sign of a failing timing chain.
- Do not drive if you suspect a bad timing chain; engine failure can be catastrophic and expensive.
- Upgrading to a double roller timing set from a brand like Cloyes or Melling is a highly recommended, durable option.
- Always replace the water pump, timing cover gasket, and front crank seal at the same time as the timing set.
Is Your B350's Timing Chain Failing?
A timing chain doesn't usually fail suddenly. It gives warning signs. If your van's engine has high mileage, listen and feel for these symptoms. Ignoring them can lead to serious engine damage.
Key Symptoms of a Worn Timing Set
- Rattling Noise: The most common sign is a rattling or clattering sound from the front of the engine, especially when you first start it or when it's idling. This is the sound of a loose chain slapping against the inside of the timing cover.
- Poor Engine Performance: A stretched chain can retard your ignition timing. You might notice your van feels sluggish, lacks power, or gets worse gas mileage.
- Engine Misfires or Rough Idle: As the chain stretches, it can jump a tooth on one of the sprockets. This throws off the engine's timing enough to cause a rough idle, shaking, or engine misfires.
- Metal Shavings in Oil: When you change your oil, look for tiny, shiny metal flakes in the used oil. This can be a sign that the chain and gears are wearing down and shedding material into the engine.
Critical Warning: Do Not Ignore These Signs
The LA-series V8 engines in these vans are interference engines. If the timing chain breaks, the pistons will hit the open valves, causing catastrophic and expensive engine damage. If you suspect a timing chain issue, 🎬 Watch: How to check your timing chain in five minutes. it is not safe to drive the vehicle.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Timing Set
For a vehicle of this age, aftermarket parts are not only common but are often considered an upgrade over the original factory parts. Original chains were often a 'silent' link type, and some used nylon-coated gears that wear out. Aftermarket sets use all-metal gears and offer more durable chain designs.
Brand & Quality Tiers
- Standard Replacement (Good): Brands like Cloyes and Melling offer excellent quality, direct-fit replacement sets. These are often called 'silent chain' or 'link belt' style sets and are a great choice for a stock daily driver. They meet or exceed original factory quality.
- Heavy-Duty Upgrade (Better): The most recommended upgrade for the Dodge 5.2L and 5.9L engines is a double roller timing set. Brands like Cloyes, Melling Select Performance, and Edelbrock offer these. A double roller chain is stronger, stretches less, and provides more stable and accurate timing over its lifespan. For the small increase in cost, it's a worthwhile investment for durability.
- Performance (Best): For modified engines or heavy-duty use, a billet steel double roller set from a brand like Edelbrock or a high-end Melling or Cloyes set is the top choice. Many of these kits also offer multiple keyways on the crankshaft sprocket, allowing for advanced or retarded cam timing for performance tuning.
Pro Tip: Add a Tensioner
Mopar small block V8s are known for having a long distance between the cam and crank sprockets, which contributes to chain stretch. Many mechanics recommend retrofitting a timing chain tensioner, originally used on the later 'Magnum' version of these engines, onto the LA block. 🎬 See how to install a timing chain tensioner upgrade. This part helps take up slack, reducing noise and extending the life of the chain.
Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost to replace the timing set can vary based on shop labor rates and which parts you choose.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Timing Set | $32 - $168 |
| Shop Labor | $700 - $1200 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $732 - $1368 |
Cost estimates are for the timing set only. Labor costs can be higher if other components like the water pump and gaskets are also replaced.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a 'double roller' chain and is it worth it?
A double roller chain has two rows of rollers and teeth on the gears, while a standard chain has one. This design spreads the load, making it stronger and less prone to stretching. For the Dodge B350's V8 engines, it is widely considered a very worthwhile and durable upgrade for a relatively small increase in price.
Should I replace the water pump at the same time?
Yes, absolutely. The water pump must be removed to access the timing cover and chain. Since you are already paying for the labor to remove it, replacing the water pump, timing cover gasket, and front crankshaft seal at the same time is a smart and cost-effective move. It prevents having to do the same job twice if one of those other parts fails soon after.
Is this a good DIY project?
This is a moderately difficult to advanced project. It requires draining fluids, removing the radiator, fan, belts, pulleys, water pump, and harmonic balancer just to access the timing cover. You also need special tools like a harmonic balancer puller. For an experienced home mechanic with the right tools, it is feasible. For a beginner, it is best left to a professional.
🎬 Watch this full walkthrough of the timing chain replacement process.Are there any recalls on the timing set for my van?
No. Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database show no recalls related to the timing chain or timing set for the 1981-1994 Dodge B350.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 83507095
Fits 1981-1994 Dodge B350 with 5.2L (318ci) or 5.9L (360ci) LA-series V8 engines. Kits include a camshaft sprocket, a crankshaft sprocket, and a timing chain. Standard kits use a silent-type chain, while upgraded kits often feature a double roller chain.
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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.
- Dodge B350:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your B350's Timing Chain Failing?
- Key Symptoms of a Worn Timing Set
- Critical Warning: Do Not Ignore These Signs
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Timing Set
- Brand & Quality Tiers
- Pro Tip: Add a Tensioner
- Estimated Replacement Costs
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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