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Classic/Antique Car Repair/Timing chain/ bearings
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Question
QUESTION: Hi Brad,
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I have the 1969 Mercury 351w now with the timing chain cover removed. Having thoroughly cleaned the inside surface of the cover, there doesn't appear to be any material missing, and the timing gears are intact. There is more play in the chain than is recommended, so I'm going ahead with replacing the set with an upgrade double-roller version. I see that the plastic gear material found in my oil pan came from the timing set, but it's still a mystery to me as to where the other metal pieces came from. What do you think is my best next move? Thanks, Scott
ANSWER: Do you still have the oil pan off the car? let me know please.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Yes it's just temporarily attached.
Just to be sure that it is not junk that was left in the oil pan from a previous repair I would drop a few bearings down for visual inspection. One at a time please and hen torque them back up making sure to lubricate them. I probably would plastigage the bearings. That is a process of checking the bearing clearance. NAPA or any good parts store sells plastigage.
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Answers by Expert:
Brad Sears
Expertise
All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.
Experience
Automotive tech instructor.
Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's.
Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's
TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated.
Auto instructor for the following companies:
Fram
Autolyte
Holly
Carter
AMF
Ford Motor
University Of Conn
Blue Hills Technical School
Sugar River Technical Center
Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.
Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.
Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember.
Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.
Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.
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