When choosing a timing chain kit for your engines, you’re often faced with two options: Go for a timing chain that offers the latest and the greatest in terms of module construction of performance, or opt for a more budget-friendly choice that could possess an older module.
That’s exactly the case with Melling and Cloyes timing chain kits. Melling’s timing chain kit is low-priced compared to Cloyes’ product, while Cloyes kit has a more advanced built module.
In this side-by-side comparison, we’ll explore all the differences between Melling and Cloyes timing chain kits so you can decide which of them best suits your engine requirements.
Melling vs. Cloyes Timing Chain Kit: Comparison
| PoC | Melling | Cloyes |
| Chain style | Roller or link | Roller only |
| Built materials | Aluminum BILLET or cast iron | Oxidized steel |
| Compatibility | Jeep, Kia, Dodge, Mitsubishi, etc. | Chevrolet, Ford, Nissan, Honda, etc. |
| Best for | OEM and performance | Stock replacement and high-performance |
Design and Materials
Melling uses cast iron and BILLET aluminum in their timing chain kits, offering a high level of longevity. Their timing chain kits are also a bit heavier than models from other manufacturers.
On the flip side, Cloyes timing chain kits are made from oxidized steel with good rust resistance properties. And while the materials used in Cloyes timing chaining kits aren’t the best, the modules are designed with advanced CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software, so you can expect the precision and timing to be better than Melling’s kits.
Winner: Melling
Chain Style
Melling’s timing chain kits integrate roller style chains or link style chains depending on the model. On the other hand, Cloyes timing chain kits exclusively utilize single and double roller-style chains that are compatible with different vehicles.
Roller kits have the advantage of minimizing friction, which ultimately slows down the wear rate of the chains. This means that roller chains are more durable and functional than link chains. Double roller chains, in particular, offer better performance and strength, ensuring you get the maximum power output from your engine.
But since you can get a roller chain from both manufacturers, we’ll consider this a tie.
Winner: Tie
Compatibility
Ensuring that the timing chain kit is compatible with your vehicle is crucial to prevent shake and lousy engine contact.
Melling and Cloyes’ timing chain kit line-ups are intended for different vehicle brands and models, but you can find kits that work well with V6, V8, and other engines from both manufacturers (see also ‘What Does LS Swap Mean?‘).
Melling’s timing chain kits are available for the following car brands:
- Lincoln
- Jeep
- Kia
- Dodge
- Mitsubishi
- Mazda
- Hyundai
- Chrysler
On the other hand, Cloyes kits are compatible with the following car makes:
- Pontiac
- Chevrolet
- Ford
- Oldsmobile
- Honda
- Nissan
- Chrysler
On a side note, keep in mind that many Cloyes timing chain kit models are designed for a single car model, which is a bit of a downside since you won’t be able to install it into another car down the link.
Winner: Melling
Performance
Timing chain kits maximize the performance of your engine’s throttle control system, but not all kits will give you the best output.
Melling’s chains maintain consistent rolling with minimal friction at speeds higher than OEM speeds. However, when it comes to accurate timing, Cloyes timing kits take the lead, particularly when it comes to off-road performance.
Winner: Cloyes
Durability
Durability is one of the biggest concerns regarding automobile parts, particularly timing chain kits.
Cloyes timing chains have a reputation for being unreliable in the durability compartment. Many people who installed Cloyes timing chain in their cars found out that it broke after 10,000-20,000 miles, which is a short timespan for a timing chain kit.
On the other hand, Melling’s timing chain kits are designed and manufactured in the United States, so you should expect them to be more durable than Cloyes’ offerings.
Winner: Melling
Melling Timing Chain Kit: Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| – Premium design materials – Wide vehicle compatibility – Durable construction – Budget-friendly price tags | – The kit’s timing and precision isn’t the best |
Cloyes Timing Chain Kit: Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| – Top-notch performance and timing – Exceptional CAD designs – Great off-road performance | – Lacks a bit in terms of durability – Hefty price tags |
Final Verdict
To sum it all up, Cloyes timing chain kits performance and timing are unmatchable. However, despite carrying higher price tags, Cloyes kits aren’t as durable as Melling’s kits.
So if you’re looking for performance, go for Cloyes timing chaining kits. On the other hand, Melling’s timing chain kits offer a better deal, both in terms of price tag and long-term useability.
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