100 timing chain worn?

[Lambdaman]

Hi all
I have been trying to track down an elusive noise in my engine compartment . It appears to be coming from the from the frontal area near the radiator. It is a metallic tinny
rattling vibrating noise, it appears at low revs at idle and disappears when revved. I have removed the fan belt and it persists so,it is not generator or water pump. I have held the exhaust down pipe when it is present and have not been able to damp it either. I able beginning to suspect that the timing chain may be worn or stretched and may be slapping on the inside of the timing cover.
any thoughts ?
Regards
David

 

[Healey 100]

Mine made a noise like that years ago. It was a fairly slack timing chain. There is also a neoprene tensioner around the cam sprocket that takes slack out of the chain. Fortunately, it's not too hard to replace both chain and tensioner.

 

[Patrick67BJ8]

Mine made a noise like that years ago. It was a fairly slack timing chain. There is also a neoprene tensioner around the cam sprocket that takes slack out of the chain. Fortunately, it's not too hard to replace both chain and tensioner.

Did I read/see and ad for an upgrade timing chain tensioner someplace and maybe from one of the UK suppliers? Anythings better than the original setup.

 

[Genos2]

Also check that crankshaft pulley retaining nut has not loosened up & allowed pulley to walk on woodruff key, used to see that a lot.

 

[pan]

I'd agree with Healey 100. The 100 engine has a ring on the camshaft sprocket which tensions the timing chain. Ignoring the noise can have disastrous consequences. It is not a difficult job to replace the tensioner but it is a lengthy one.

 

[Lambdaman]

Thanks every one for responses, have gone to order a new chain and they are currently unavailable form AH Spares and Ahead 4 Healeys, anyone know another source?
regards
David

 

[vette]

Don't know what part of the world Newcastle is in but try Healey Surgeons, Maryland just outside of DC.

 

[pan]

David,
Don't forget to replace the 'rubber' tensioner on the camshaft sprocket as well as the timing chain.