I'm presently thinking of using Cloyes Timing chain, gears, water pump and tensioners they sell as a kit through RockAuto for VQ35DE engines. My coupe is a 2004 6MT with Brembo and although I've read where most forum replies indicate to use OEM Nissan parts, I wanted to inquire about forum members using the Tawian made Cloyes Timeing parts. Also I have ordered a pair of red aluminum valve covers from eBay for the VQ instead of the plastic ones, because of leaking oil into the spark plug tubes. Has anybody tried them out. Thanks for your time.

 

Personally I would run an OEM pump just because it's not that expensive and they're guaranteed to have a long life. The chain itself however I wouldn't be super concerned with, the aftermarket industry mastered making timing chains about 50 years ago. Just be sure to compare it link-by-link to the OEM chain when you take it off to ensure your chain markings/indicators are all in the exact same spot.

If you're trying to really budget it out then don't feel bad about using the water pump from that kit, I'm sure it'll work just fine. These are pretty basic components, nothing fancy.

 

Thank you for your reply

 

Just some thoughts for anyone planning to use Cloyes. The top guide I got from them only has 2 bolts instead of 3. Hopefully won’t be an issue.

 

How has it held up? I’m in between either cloyes or oem. Friend of mine told me they’re a good company and he uses them at his shop

 

I have a few thousand hard miles on them so far with no issues.

 

I see this is from just over a year ago. Timing chain still holding up fine?

 

Still holding strong! Rev limiter set to 7,500 and still good

 

I have one on my supercharged G35. YMMV, but it was a big enough price difference that it was worth the risk.