Operation

OPERATION

The primary timing chain is a single inverted tooth chain type. The primary chain drives the large 50 tooth idler sprocket directly from a 25 tooth crankshaft sprocket. Primary chain motion is controlled by a pivoting leaf spring tensioner arm and a fixed guide. The arm and the guide both use nylon plastic wear faces for low friction and long wear. The primary chain receives oil splash lubrication from the secondary chain drive and designed oil pump leakage. The idler sprocket assembly connects the primary chain drive, secondary chain drives, and the counterbalance shaft. The idler sprocket assembly consists of two integral 26 tooth sprockets a 50 tooth sprocket and a helical gear that is press-fit to the assembly. The spline joint for the 50 tooth sprocket is a non serviceable press fit anti rattle type. A spiral ring is installed on the outboard side of the 50 tooth sprocket to prevent spline disengagement. The idler sprocket assembly spins on a stationary idler shaft. The idler shaft is a light press-fit into the cylinder block. A large washer on the idler shaft bolt and the rear flange of the idler shaft are used to control sprocket thrust movement. Pressurized oil is routed through the center of the idler shaft to provide lubrication for the two bushings used in the idler sprocket assembly.

There are two secondary drive chains, both are roller type, one to drive the camshaft in each SOHC cylinder head. There are no shaft speed changes in the secondary chain drive system. Each secondary chain drives a 26 tooth cam sprocket directly from the 26 tooth sprocket on the idler sprocket assembly. A fixed chain guide and a hydraulic oil damped tensioner are used to maintain tension in each secondary chain system. The hydraulic tensioners for the secondary chain systems are fed pressurized oil from oil reservoir pockets in the block. Each tensioner incorporates a controlled leak path through a device known as a vent disc located in the nose of the piston to manage chain loads. Each tensioner also has a mechanical ratchet system that limits chain slack if the tensioner piston bleeds down after engine shut down. The tensioner arms and guides also utilize nylon wear faces for low friction and long wear. The secondary timing chains receive lubrication from a small orifice in the tensioners. This orifice is protected from clogging by a fine mesh screen which is located on the back of the hydraulic tensioners.