Decided to replace the timing chain cover, harmonic balancer, and timing chain set?

1995 FORD BRONCO
135,000 MILES • 5.0L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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1995NOJBRONCO
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I have a coolant leak. Replaced the water pump, hoses and thermostat. Slowed it but didn't stop it. I then found out the timing chain cover has coolant channels, so tore it apart again. Decided to replace the timing chain cover, harmonic balancer, and timing chain set. Your rebuild series has been helpful. I wish I could just take the motor out and do the whole thing, but I need it running.

The question I have is that in your video you changed the thrust retention plate, and it had a bearing. Should I do that while I am in there? I am installing an Edelbrock Performer-Link chain set and it did not come with the additional parts your Summit set did. In addition, trying to get the harmonic balancer off, a bolt on the balancer removal tool broke, and shot into the radiator puncturing it. Now I have to replace the radiator and I want to know what your thought on a 3-row radiator now, in anticipation of redoing the whole motor eventually.
Jul 18, 2022 at 9:35 AM
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Yep, those balancers can be tight, did you get it removed? Also, in the instructions the timing set comes with it will show any modifications that need to be done, some replacement chains don't need any. Does your chain have the thrust bearing? If not there maybe no worries about modifying the thrust plate. The three-row radiator would cool the engine much better than the old two row radiator that was in there.
Jul 19, 2022 at 9:05 AM
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1995NOJBRONCO
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Thanks Ken.
I was finally able to get it off with a MAP gas torch! There is no thrust plate or bearing in the chain set, just the two sprockets and the chain.
Jul 19, 2022 at 9:15 AM
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STRAILER
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You should be okay then, to be sure you can upload some pics so I can see what's going on.
Jul 19, 2022 at 11:44 AM
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1995NOJBRONCO
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Thanks Ken.
I am running a Robert Shaw 330-180 thermostat. with a Flow master Hi Flow water pump. will a 4 Row Frostbite radiator be too much cooling? I cannot find a quality 3 row radiator in a timely fashion...
Jul 19, 2022 at 6:12 PM
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STRAILER
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A larger radiator can only do better especially in the heat, the thermostat will regulate the engine temperature so don't worry about that.
Jul 20, 2022 at 12:34 PM