So today I decided to rip into replacing the timing cover and balancer on the GS400. Found some interesting things. First, the balancer was split and whomever put it back on put RTV down the crank key to keep it from leaking (I assume). The front of the groove on the balance is messed up too, like someone didn't have it lined up and tried to force it on. It cam off without too much effort, like it's supposed to and didn't wobble. The end of the crank looks great. The key seems OK, just the front edge is messed up, I can file that back into shape. Glad I bought a new balancer from TA with the timing cover, to replace this one... Next is the timing chain. This timing set probably has 20K to 25K miles on it, but seems pretty loose to me. Since this is my first Buick, I don't know if this is normal or not. Should I replace the timing chain and gears while I have the front of the motor this far apart? The car seemed to run good with it like this and it's not really in my budget, but it seems super easy to replace right now. Here is a video of it... Let me know what y'all think about the crank key and timing chain. If I need to get the key, where is a good place? If I have to get the timing set, it will probably be from TA Performance. Thanks in advance for your input!
Wow, that could have been disastrous. Best hardware store in town, NAPA or McMaster Carr for a replacement key. Imo
I went ahead and picked up a Melling replacement timing set, for piece of mind. Since I have it apart this far it just doesn't make sense not to replace it for another $60.
Sealer on the ID of the damper--particularly the keyway--is good practice. Prevents oil seepage. What is the ratchet in your photo? Air or cordless?
It's a Milwaukee cordless. Awesome tool. I bought it last year after reading some good reviews in a thread here. Thanks for the tip on the sealer, too!
