Moderator: volvite
The factory exhaust is stainless steel and mine is in very good shape even after 10 years. Heat shield clamps rusting and breaking are a common thing, but they are easily replaced with some radiator hose clamps.Kestral wrote:First off it was good to hear SMJ's story as I figured he was not your average home shop M1Abrams tank mechanic.
Nice muffler! SMJ do you find the stock R51 Pathy exhaust last a while?
Your R51 looks like a good project it will be interesting to see how it all comes together.
If you can hear the timing chain whine, then you should replace the secondary chains ASAP. The whine is an indication that the chain(s) has already cut into the tensioner face. Whether you want to replace just the secondary chains as per the TSB or get a whole timing chain kit with guides is up to you. I have noticed on those that I have replaced, there was little to no visible wear on the timing chain guides. I would recommend replacing, in addition to the secondary chains, the primary chain and tensioner, thermostat and water pump. I highly recommend using Permatex Ultra Grey Rigid High-torque RTV on the front cover; it comes in a cheese-whiz style can or in a tube you can used in a caulk gun and it is fantastic! It would also be a good time to replace the serpentine belt.azaizai wrote:I really appreciate this thread! You're approaching the Path the same way I'm thinking about mine. Duty and utility first, and then maybe a little fun.
Quesiton though: My little 4.0 has the timing chain whine and I'm only sitting at 89k miles. I'm comfortable doing the work but I'd rather only work on the motor once. In terms of timing/mileage, how long should I wait to get the timing chain tensioners done? I'm thinking about doing the timing stuff, plugs and boots, intake spacer and possibly that crank pulley you listed (I didnt know that was a thing). I dont put much mileage on the truck, have switched over to synthetic everything and the noise doesnt sound any worse...so I'm inclined to wait.
Anywho, look forward to more updates and thanks again