[2003turbocobra]

need to replace a few pistons...anyone know how the timing chains have to be aligined before removal? 2003 cobra, helion turbo kit

[EagleAutosports]

First, I'll say welcome to the site, glad you joined.
And you don't have to actually rotate the engine to remove the chains, just mark them with a suitable paint before you release the tension on them so you can put the same tooth in the same slot in the chain when you put them back on. That goes for both sides.

[lxarlo]

the 4.6 actually has a dot on the cam sprocket and a different colored link on the chain for easy alignment. you should only have to remove the drive chain from the crank, you can leave on the cam to cam chain.

[markwondi]

Originally Posted by lxarlo

the 4.6 actually has a dot on the cam sprocket and a different colored link on the chain for easy alignment. you should only have to remove the drive chain from the crank, you can leave on the cam to cam chain.

It's a copper link, but I'll tell you that I can only visibily see that link on ~10% of the engines I've worked on. Either way though, you can paint pen it before taking it off, or just fold the chain in half after it's off.

[2003turbocobra]

thanks guys. ill just hit the chain and sprockets with an engraver

[lxarlo]

Originally Posted by 2003turbocobra

thanks guys. ill just hit the chain and sprockets with an engraver

use paint. the engraver will make your chains weakest point where you engrave on it.

you dont want to have to replace the whole engine because of a broken timing chain do you?

[2003turbocobra]

just a few lines on the chains, hardly think it will weaken them.