Help with a single row timing chain
 

Here is the deal: i like to believe that I am a fair Chevy mechanic but i am lost in the MB world. I have a 1981 380 SL with a single row timing chain. Car has about 80K miles on it and previous owner changed the chain at about 40K.

Car isn't worth the $2K to put on a double row chain so I bought new guides and a single row chain and looked at all the "how-to" stuff I can find. Problem is all of the videos show a clip-on style master link so you can tie the new chain to the old one to feed it thru without taking the front cover off. Where can I find a clip on style master link for this chain. I plan to use the rivet style master link to complete the job, but I need a clip on style to do the job and can only find a rivet style.

Could I use the clip on double row style, maybe with some extra washers for the temporary assembly?

PLEASE HELP

Perhaps a double row master link would work, or shorten the pins on a double row, thread the end and put a nylok nut to hold it in? Was also thinking of getting two double row masters, use only the piece from each kit that has holes in them and riveting it together for the pull through.

Good luck!!!

Just use a link from the old chain. After you grind the peened over ends off a link the side plate is still a tight press fit on the pins. Once you get the side plate off hook the new chain on and press the side plate back on. It won't come off just winding the chain in as there is literally zero side loading. Hell in a pinch I've done it without even putting the side plate back on. (Not recommended for beginners)

I second that. I also used the old link to hold it in place. It still had a snug fit after it got ground off the old chain

Thanks Guys, I have been wanting to do this for six months, guess this weekend is a go.