Technical Articles
Maintenance and repairs: How to Replace your Waterpump & Timing Chain
This tech paper will discuss the replacement of the waterpump and the timing chain & gears on a 1985 L98 (regular Chevy 350) C4 Corvette. Other years are very similar in procedure, and utilize the same overall technique.
Article by Lars Grimsrud
Colorado Corvette Crazies (CCC)
The Ultimate Corvette Tuning & Beer Drinking Fraternity
Lafayette, CO
Overview
The waterpump and the timing chain are virtually regular maintenance items on a small block Chevy, but it can be costly to have this replacement work performed by a shop. With the proper tools and instruction, this work can be accomplished by anybody with some mechanical ability, but some words of caution are in order.
First, it is important to have the proper tools. This article includes a list of tools and supplies needed to do this work. I would not recommend attempting to do this work if you do not have the proper tools: it will become an extremely frustrating experience, and you'll end up with a partially disassembled car being towed to the shop. You can buy all the tools for less than the cost of having the work done, so get set up with the right stuff before you try doing this job in a make-shift fashion.
Second, be aware that this is not a particularly "fun" job. There is nothing magically difficult about it, but you're going to get dirty, you're going to sweat, you're going to be uncomfortable, and you're going to make a mess out of your garage. If this does not sound appealing to you, reconsider doing this work yourself. If you're up for the challenge and satisfaction of doing the work, then proceed!
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Email the author at V8fastcars @ msn. com