How to Diagnose a Timing Chain Issue on a 2014-2020 GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L V8 (Engine: V6 4.3L)
Step-by-step troubleshooting with safety tips, required tools, parts, and repair cost info
How to Diagnose a Timing Chain Issue on a 2014-2020 GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L V8 (Engine: V6 4.3L)
Step-by-step troubleshooting with safety tips, required tools, parts, and repair cost info for 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020
🔧 Timing Belt - Not Applicable
Your Sierra does not use a timing belt. The 5.3L V8 uses a timing chain, which is a different and much more involved repair. If you're chasing a noise, timing code, or high-mileage wear, the next step is diagnosing the timing chain system before replacing parts.
Difficulty Level: Advanced | Estimated Time: 0 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Timing chain service is major engine work and requires full front-engine disassembly.
- Battery disconnect is recommended before starting any engine tear-down.
- Do not run the engine if you hear severe chain rattle, cam/crank correlation faults, or metal contamination in the oil.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Basic metric socket set
- Torque wrench
- Breaker bar
- Harmonic balancer puller (specialty)
- Engine support bar or floor jack with wood block
- Drain pan
- Safety glasses
- Nitrile gloves
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Timing chain set - Qty: 1
- Timing cover gasket set - Qty: 1
- Front crankshaft seal - Qty: 1
- Engine oil - Qty: 1 service fill
- Engine coolant - Qty: 1 refill
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $1,200-$2,500 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $300-$700 (parts only)
You Save: $900-$1,800 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 8-14 hours.
🎯 Ready to get started?
HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.
Guide for Engine Timing Chain Kit replace for these GMC vehicles
| Year Make Model | Sub Model | Engine | Body Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V6 4.3L | - |
| 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V8 5.3L | - |
| 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V8 6.2L | - |
| 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V6 4.3L | - |
| 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V8 5.3L | - |
| 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V8 6.2L | - |
| 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V6 4.3L | - |
| 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V8 5.3L | - |
| 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V8 6.2L | - |
| 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V6 4.3L | - |
| 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V8 5.3L | - |
| 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V8 6.2L | - |
| 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V6 4.3L | - |
| 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V8 5.3L | - |
| 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V8 6.2L | - |
| 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V6 4.3L | - |
| 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V8 5.3L | - |
| 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V8 6.2L | - |
| 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V6 4.3L | - |
| 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V8 5.3L | - |
| 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 | - | V8 6.2L | - |


















