How to Replace an S-10 Timing Chain

by Daniel Valladares

The timing chain on your Chevrolet S-10 truck is essential for the operation of the S-10's engine. The timing chain keeps the valves of the engine running in the precise order necessary for the engine to operate. A faulty chain may cause a total failure of the engine. The timing chain replacement process is relatively simple and should take you approximately one hour to complete.

Step 1

Lift up the hood of the S-10 and use a socket wrench to disconnect the negative cable from the truck's battery.

Step 2

Place a drain pan under the radiator drain plug and loosen the plug with a socket wrench to allow all of the liquids to flow into the pan. Tighten the drain plug.

Step 3

Remove the alternator from the engine by first loosening its belt by hand, then removing its securing bolt with a socket wrench. Once the bolt is off, disconnect the alternator's wiring harness and pull it out of the truck.

Step 4

Remove the four screws securing the fan cover with a Phillips screwdriver and remove the cover from the truck. Remove the three bolts securing the fan, fan clutch and pulley with a socket wrench. Pull out the fan, fan clutch and pulley from the engine compartment.

Step 5

Remove the clip securing each hose with a slotted screwdriver. Pull out the two hoses from the water pump and remove the bolts from the water pump with a socket wrench. If any excess liquids spill out, mop them up with a towel.

Step 6

Remove the four bolts securing the water pump with a socket wrench. Lift out the water pump assembly and gasket from the timing chain cover.

Step 7

Remove the two bolts securing the cover of the timing chain. Remove the timing chain cover from the engine compartment.

Step 8

Pull the timing chain out of the engine compartment. Install a replacement timing chain into the engine and reattach the cover of the timing chain. Install the bolts to secure the cover.