Timing chain direction

[IncaDolly78]

Hello, quick question, can a Sprint timing chain be fitted either way round? I read on FB that there is a lead link which must face the direction of travel but I can't see it, all the links look identical to me. What am I looking for please? Thanks!

Chris
TDC member

[xvivalve]

Some chains are continuous, some have a link. The latter are directional, but with the former there is no way of telling which way they run!

[MIG Wielder]

I haven't seen a timing chain with a removable link since the days of my old Austin Cambridge. I recall the idea of the link was so that you could replace the chain without removing the sprockets. It had to be refitted with the open end in the trailing direction of rotation.
Like this.
http://bicycling.about.com/od/bikemaint ... -It-Do.htm
Tony.

[IncaDolly78]

Thanks Alun and Tony. Hopefully it's continuous then! I was surprised at the idea it might have an 'open' link as I've not heard of this with our cars before. I've previously looked for the small gap in the links as described in the bike chain link but despite nearly going cross eyed didn't find one! It would require three partial links with the Sprint of course which would compromise strength I would've thought.

Chris

[soe8m]

Thanks Alun and Tony. Hopefully it's continuous then! I was surprised at the idea it might have an 'open' link as I've not heard of this with our cars before. I've previously looked for the small gap in the links as described in the bike chain link but despite nearly going cross eyed didn't find one! It would require three partial links with the Sprint of course which would compromise strength I would've thought.

Chris

No it's just a different way of locking. All the parts are the same but one chain the pins are rivetted and the other has a clip. The only thing to watch is the closed side of the locking clip must be in forward travel.

Jeroen