What is the consensus opinion on timing chain replacement? Will the chain signal it needs replacement by making noise or is their a way to inspect it?
​​​​​​​Thanks

 

Ticking , to inspect, remove the front engine cover and the valve cover , the front chain guide can be more likely to fail.



Look for slack between the cam gears

 

And, mileage. If you are over 120K miles, it's not a bad idea. My SS got chain stretch at about 140K. It is now being parted out after sitting a year at the Chrysler dealer. My chain jumped the tracks a couple of times.

 

Ive changed a starter and alternator and done tuneups, belt changes, changed our auto trans filters and fluid etc. Would changing the timing chain be within my abilities do you think?

 

Those are relatively simple tasks. I'd say , if you have to ask....... No. A number of members have run into real problems.

 

I posted a video from Cloyes here awhile ago, step by step instructions.

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/how-...in-kits-60394/

It’s in here, have a look, see if you believe you can do it.