Oldblue, the Cloyes video says the sprocket bolts are torque to yield and should be replaced. Do I need to buy new bolts or is it OK to reuse the old bolts.
Or is it possible to remove the chain without taking off the sprockets?
And what about the crank bolt, isn't that TTY also?

 

I don't know why they would say that. GM says almost all bolts with a torque spec should be replaced (they sell bolts).
TTY means that the bolt stretches when properly torqued so that the threads are deformed to form a lock. There is no mention of torque to yield bolts anywhere in the service manual (see link in my sig for free service manuals). It does say to carefully inspect and clean the threads. If a bolt requires extra force to be re used then it did stretch and needs to be replaced.
There is a difference between "should" and "must".
I don't think you will find many pros that replace any bolts, not many that know what a torque wrench is either.


LOOK DOWN HERE VVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVV links in my sig.

 

Thanks, donbrew. Take a look at this page of the service manual:

https://charm.li/Chevy%20Truck/2010/...ar%2FSprocket/

At the bottom it states, "Always install NEW actuator bolts."

And then on this page:

https://charm.li/Chevy%20Truck/2010/...0and%20Repair/

It says to "Remove and discard the crankshaft balancer bolt." and then "Install a NEW crankshaft balancer bolt."

So, I guess it's better to do what the service manual says 😀

 

I’ve never installed new crank or cam bolts unless they were reused on last timing chain job.

 

Yes, I said "GM says almost all bolts with a torque spec should be replaced (they sell bolts).". They are not Torque To Yield, if they were the spec would be such.
Replace them if you have the money. Not worth arguing about.

 

Pulled the timing cover off and the front guide fell out in pieces!
You can see where the chain was hitting the guide bolt head and also the inside of the timing cover.
I think the timing cover is OK, but I'm going to have to get some new guide bolts...
I haven't pulled the plug to look at the top front guide bolt yet.

 

There is a improved bolt and a improved guide. Oldblue will probably pop in shortly with links.

 

ZZP has this kit, I strongly recommend it if you’re keeping your HHR. Just the lower bolt and the upper replacement bolt

https://zzperformance.com/search?q=t...ntt+guide+bolt

 

Now you know why you need the ZZP front guide. It comes with one guide bolt, I think, for the lower hole. The upper one should be the improved one.

https://zzperformance.com/products/z...ng-chain-guide

Try to find all the pieces. You need to remove the oil pan. Be sure to check the oil pickup screen. Ask me how I know.