J18A timing set - Melling a good brand?

[t3tom]

Hello,

I read your tips on selecting a good timing set for the J18/J20 timing chain equipped engines. Other than OEM parts, do you think Melling is a good quality alternative? Their prices are quite a lot higher than the fleabay stuff, but I cant find much information on whether these parts are made in USA or Japan?

[fixkick]

not sure now, to much time water under the bridge ,etc.
all I know is the most cheap ones are junk,.
good chains are very hard metal. some clones are not near as good as the top makers .

those words were like 10 years ago.. so not sure now.... I hope now you have more choices
Cheers !

[fetcher]

They have been known to make good parts. it says: Country of Origin (Primary) United States
http://www.opticatonline.com/part/mellin...timing-set

[rasmeidirt]

Look at this:
http://bbs.zuwharrie.com/content?topic=130985.0
for the Japanese made OSK kit (part number S601K) and how to install them.

[t3tom]

Thanks Fixkick. There are a lot of choices.

fetcher, Thanks for that good link. It does show that their Melling product is made in the USA.

rasmeidirt, The OSK product does seem to be very high quality. The only way to purchase it in North America looks like from Amazon or eBay. The prices for the OSK kit seem to range from as low as $130 USD to $800+ USD, which suggests that some sellers may be selling counterfeit/clones.

I think I will also research what the Suzuki OEM prices for the individual timing components adds up in price, since they don't offer a complete kit.

[rasmeidirt]

Thanks Fixkick. There are a lot of choices.

fetcher, Thanks for that good link. It does show that their Melling product is made in the USA.

rasmeidirt, The OSK product does seem to be very high quality. The only way to purchase it in North America looks like from Amazon or eBay. The prices for the OSK kit seem to range from as low as $130 USD to $800+ USD, which suggests that some sellers may be selling counterfeit/clones.

I think I will also research what the Suzuki OEM prices for the individual timing components adds up in price, since they don't offer a complete kit.

You can search it to buy directly from the OSK fatory. I did!

http://www.nitomainc.com/con1.html

Remember that the OSK kit comes with everything, except the gear sprocket of which you can still use the old one.

[fetcher]

Lots of detail. I am glad I don't need to do that. Of course, if my
belt ever breaks I will change my opinion on that.
I think you meant to write 11/16 instead of 1 1/16

[t3tom]

Update:
I tried to get a Melling set from Rockauto but they were sold out.

I bought a Made in Japan OSK timing set sold as Altrom 05395800, which is a NAPA brand.

It includes the chains, seal, guides, tensioners and 3 gears.

It cost over $240 US but hopefully it will help the engine last another 200,000 miles

[rasmeidirt]

Update:
I tried to get a Melling set from Rockauto but they were sold out.

I bought a Made in Japan OSK timing set sold as Altrom 05395800, which is a NAPA brand.

It includes the chains, seal, guides, tensioners and 3 gears.

It cost over $240 US but hopefully it will help the engine last another 200,000 miles

You got the center gear sprocket? It is rear!
Good you found them.