Engine Timing Set Guide for the 1979-1987 GMC K1500 Suburban
Keep your classic GMC's engine in sync with a durable new timing set.
- Aftermarket timing sets with all-metal gears are a significant durability upgrade over the original nylon-toothed sprockets.
- A rattling noise from the front of the engine is the most common symptom of a worn timing chain.
- It is highly recommended to replace the water pump and timing cover seals at the same time as the timing set.
- For most owners, a double-roller kit from a reputable brand like Melling or Edelbrock provides the best balance of performance and value.
Is Your Timing Chain on its Last Legs?
The original timing sets in many 1979-1987 GMC K1500 Suburbans used a camshaft sprocket with nylon-coated teeth. While this design was quiet when new, the nylon becomes brittle over time. It can chip away, causing the timing chain to become loose. These plastic pieces can fall into the oil pan and clog the oil pump's pickup screen, leading to serious engine damage from oil starvation.
Because of this common issue, replacing a worn timing set is not just a repair—it's an opportunity to upgrade. Most aftermarket timing sets, even standard replacements, use all-metal sprockets that are far more durable than the original nylon-toothed design.
Symptoms of a Failing Timing Set
A worn timing chain gives several warning signs. Paying attention to them can help you avoid a breakdown or more expensive engine repairs.
- Engine Rattle: The most common sign is a rattling or clattering noise coming from the front of the engine, behind the water pump. This sound is often most noticeable at idle and is caused by the loose chain slapping against the timing cover.
- Engine Misfires and Rough Idle: As the chain stretches, the camshaft and crankshaft fall out of perfect sync. This can cause the engine to run rough, misfire, or idle poorly.
- Loss of Power: Incorrect valve timing from a stretched chain reduces engine efficiency, leading to sluggish acceleration and poor overall performance.
- Metal Shavings in Oil: During an oil change, you might find small metal shavings or pieces of black plastic in the drained oil or on the magnetic drain plug. This is a clear sign that the timing gears are disintegrating.
Pre-OBDII Diagnostics
Your 1979-1987 Suburban does not have a modern computer system that will give you a specific trouble code for a worn timing chain. Diagnosis relies on listening for noises and checking for mechanical slack in the chain.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Timing Set
With 84 options available, picking the right one depends on your budget and how you use your truck. Aftermarket timing sets for the K1500 Suburban are generally a significant upgrade over the stock parts.
Brand Tiers for Your Suburban
- Standard Replacement (Good): Brands like Cloyes and Melling are trusted names for reliable, daily-driver quality parts. They offer affordable single and double roller sets that feature all-metal gears, providing a durable replacement for a stock engine. While Cloyes is a historic brand, some recent reports mention their budget-friendly kits can have some slack out of the box, while Melling is often praised for a tight fit.
- Heavy-Duty / Performance (Better): For those who tow, haul, or want extra peace of mind, brands like Edelbrock and Melling Select Performance are excellent choices. These kits often feature stronger "true-roller" or double-roller chains and billet steel gears. Many also include multi-keyway crank sprockets, which allow for advancing or retarding cam timing for performance tuning.
- Premium Performance (Best): High-end kits from brands like Cloyes Race Billet are designed for high-performance and racing engines. They use the best materials, like billet steel for both sprockets, and are hand-matched for precision. For a stock or mildly modified Suburban, these are likely overkill but offer the ultimate in strength and accuracy.
Pro Tip: Double Roller vs. Single Roller
A "double roller" chain is wider and stronger than a standard single roller chain and is a popular upgrade for durability. For most stock or mildly modified Small Block Chevy engines in these Suburbans, a quality double roller set from a brand like Melling or Edelbrock offers a great balance of price and strength.
Cost of a New Engine Timing Set
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Timing Set | $24.42 - $99.73 |
| Shop Labor | $300 - $550 |
Cost estimates are for parts and labor and may vary based on your location and the specific repair shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need special tools to replace my timing set?
Yes. The most important special tool you will need is a harmonic balancer puller to remove the main crankshaft pulley. You will also need a good set of sockets, a torque wrench, and gasket scrapers. Some installers use a special tool to press the new crank gear on, but it can often be done carefully with a large socket and a mallet.
Should I replace the water pump at the same time?
Yes, it is highly recommended. The water pump must be removed to access the timing cover. Since you've already done most of the labor, replacing the water pump at the same time is a smart and cost-effective preventative measure.
Will a new timing set make my engine louder?
An all-metal aftermarket timing set may produce a slightly more audible whirring sound compared to the original nylon-toothed gear, but it should not be loud or concerning. A loud rattling noise indicates a problem. A "gear drive" system, a different type of timing setup, is known for its distinct whining noise, but standard chain sets are relatively quiet.
Do I need to worry about recalls for my timing set?
No. Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database show no recalls for the engine timing set on the 1979-1987 GMC K1500 Suburban. Failures are due to age and the original material design, not a manufacturing defect.
Technical Specifications
Chain Type: Timing Chain (Single or Double Roller) Sprocket Material: Cast Iron or Steel (Aftermarket), Nylon-Coated (OEM-style) Engine Application: Chevrolet Small Block V8 (e.g., 305, 350)
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.