OEM 2000 Dodge Ram 3500 Van Timing Chain

2000 Dodge Ram 3500 Van Timing Chain Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to service and repair the timing chain on 2000 Dodge Ram 3500 Van?

  A: To work on the timing chain, you should first cut the negative power to your battery and then remove the timing chain cover. Instead of applying much pressure, reattach the vibration damper bolt by hand and then turn the crankshaft with the correct tools and a breaker bar until the timing marks are lined up. Withdraw the bolt that holds the camshaft sprocket in place and take the timing chain, crankshaft and both sprockets out, too. While you are working, place the cam and crankshaft sprockets on a bench, putting their timing marks in line on a central imaginary center line passing through their bores. Place the timing chain between the two sprockets and turn the crankshaft and camshaft so that the keyways in their sprockets are side by side. Lift the sprockets and chain together off the bike and tighten them to the chain. Then, put both sprockets on their shafts and confirm that the timing marks are aligned using a straightedge. Put the camshaft bolt in and tighten it to a torque of 68 Nm or 50 ft. lbs. Check the camshaft side play with a new thrust plate; if it falls outside the range of 0.051 - 0.152 mm (0.002 - 0.006 inch), install a new one. The last step is to place the timing chain cover.