How much chain deflection is too much?

[87MJTIM]

I am working on a 4.0 out of a 93 XJ.  I will install it into my 84 CJ7. I am changing all gaskets and seals first.

 

I just took off the timing chain cover and found the chain has a lot of play (maybe).  

 

Based on the pictures, should I replace the chain? I don't know the miles on the engine.  

 

 

 

[A-man930]

Seems like too much to me

[ComancheKid45]

You're in there, might as well

[87MJTIM]

I bit the bullet yesterday and ordered a complete set from Rockauto - chain and sprockets.

 

The FSM said that if the chain deflection is more than 1/2" then it should be replaced.  It looks like a 1/2" of movement.

[Tykerp]

I would replace it. I bought a melling set when I built my 94 motor. Timing marks were 180 degrees off. Took me awhile to figure out why it would not run. I lined everything up properly according to alldata and Chilton. Finally inspected the old timing set and new one and figured out they marked it 180 off.

[Minuit]

I've had 2 brand new Cloyes timing sets have a worrying amount of slack and make noise right out of the box. I don't know what a brand new factory one is like, but it seems like the aftermarket parts suck across the board.