Timing Guide Bolts; ARP vs Dorman vs Mike Brandt vs Havuk Ind?
 

2.2L 2006
currently waiting on timing, balance, clutch parts to arrive, and fixing to have the work done by someone familiar with this drivetrain in the next week or two. (list of parts here):
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1...x2y4K0IjI5kEM/
I've done some reading and discovered that the normal guide bolts on the black timing chain rail are part of the common issues with these ecotecs.
Further to that, I've seen people discuss multiple upgraded solutions.

Is there any general consensus as to which is effectively the "best" option?
I know "best" is subjective, but I'd feel more comfortable if I could hear some other folks' thoughts on the matter.

- The ARP bolts seem to be a direct replacement with higher tensile strength.
The other 3 options are variations on the same idea; threading into the access hole rather than the head.
- Dorman uses thread sealer and what looks to be a washer.
- the Mike Brandt design seems to use only thread sealer (note: Mike Brandt has apparently passed away, a new user on cobaltss.net, "Mongorat427" has taken up the reigns of a nearly identical design)
- the HavukIndustries design uses an O-ring

While I'm sure they're all better than the basic OEM application, my biggest concern is having a good seal so as not to have an oil leak.

- Having only thread sealer on Mike Brandt's solution doesn't seem effective enough, but I like that he includes the ARP bolts to replace the other ones (if I understand OldBlue's comment)

- The O-ring on Havuk's seems like a better option, but how much would I have to worry about it getting stiff/brittle over time?

- Dorman's washer could be fine, but does it mate to a smooth surface or simply the dirty/rough/corroded outside face of the block? Their website also claims it to NOT be compatible with the 2.2L in my 2006 model... is that maybe just a mistake on their part?

I hope this isn't a dumb or annoying post, I've tried to find further comment about it here on the forums but I haven't really seen much specific chatter about it.
I'm open to whatever input people may have; thanks! :thumb:


Reference links:
(also: that ARP kit seems pretty expensive, unless there's something special about the two sleeves included. You have to go through an ARP dealer, but it looks like dealer cost is $15 for a pack of 5 bolts, but of course no sleeves - The Official ARP Web Site - I'm going to swing by a local dealer on my way home today just to see what they might charge for them. It would be neat to figure out where to get those sleeves; maybe someone could buy a bunch and sell their own kit for less than 50-60 bucks)

I purchased the Mike Brandt, it comes with ARP bolts for the tensioner guide and the bottom bolt on the front black guide.
Not a dumb question at all.
Particle, yes!

Mike Brandt
 

How do I get in touch with Mike Brant? I was looking for his replacement tensioner bolt. Email isn't working

If you'd read post #1, Mike apparently passed away, looks like someone else is doing a similar product. But I don't think there's a bolt for the timing tensioner.

ZZP had the ARP bolt for the bottom of the tensioner guide.