OEM 2000 Dodge Ram 1500 Timing Chain

2000 Dodge Ram 1500 Timing Chain Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to Service and Repair a Timing Chain on 2000 Dodge Ram 1500?

  A: The first step in servicing or fixing the timing chain is to cut power to the battery and release all coolant from the system. Open the timing cover and turn the crankshaft to have all the timing marks lined up to #1 TDC. After removing the connecting bolt, remove the timing chain and the crankshaft and camshaft sprockets as one unit. Build tension by setting a large screwdriver between the sprocket and the shoe and compressing the shoe until the holes match, then push on a suitable pin and remove the screwdriver. Whenever you change the tensioner assembly, block the three bolts that attach to the tensioner and take out the assembly. When replacing the tensioner assembly during installation, put in the assembly, as well as the mounting bolts and torque them to 24 Nm (210 in. lbs.). Align the timing marks of each sprocket on a bench along an imaginary center line and set the timing chain around both formed rings. While applying force to keep the sprockets together, lift both sprockets and their chains, slide them straight onto the shafts and check if their timing marks align with a straight-edge. Fix the camshaft bolt in place and tighten it to 68 Nm (50 ft. lbs.), then get rid of the tensioner pin and inspect if the timing marks are aligned. Secure the timing cover, replenish the car's cooling fluid, reattach the battery negative cable and start the engine to use the dipstick to make sure there are no oil or coolant leaks.