Does the 5.7 Hemi have a timing belt or chain?
The 5.7 Hemi uses a timing chain, not a belt.
The 5.7 Hemi is a modern, 5.7-liter V8 used in a range of Dodge and Ram vehicles. It uses a dual-overhead-cam (DOHC) design with variable cam timing and cylinder deactivation, and the camshafts are synchronized to the crankshaft by a timing chain rather than a rubber belt. This design is intended to last the life of the engine, though wear can occur in high-mileage engines, requiring inspection of the chain, tensioners, and guides.
Timing belts vs timing chains: what the 5.7 Hemi uses
Before listing the main differences, here's a quick contrast to set expectations for the 5.7 Hemi.
- Belts are made of reinforced rubber and require periodic replacement, typically every 60,000–100,000 miles depending on the vehicle and manufacturer.
- Chains are metal and generally last longer, with replacement only if wear, stretching, or failure occurs.
- Belts can fail suddenly and cause significant engine damage; chains are designed for longer life but can wear or stretch with age and mileage.
In short, the 5.7 Hemi relies on a durable timing chain rather than a belt, which reduces routine replacement needs but does not eliminate the possibility of wear-related issues as the engine ages.
Inside the 5.7 Hemi timing chain system
The 5.7 Hemi employs a DOHC setup with cam phasing (variable timing) and an electronically controlled tensioning system to maintain precise cam timing. A timing chain runs between the crankshaft and the bank of camshafts, with guides and tensioners to keep it tight and properly aligned. The engine also uses a cylinder deactivation system (MDS) that interacts with the timing system, but the core mechanism remains chain-driven cam timing.
Key components
Below are the primary components involved in the timing chain system you should know about.
- Timing chain linking the crankshaft to the camshafts
- Chain tensioners that keep the chain tight
- Chain guides that direct and stabilize the chain path
- Cam phasers for intake and exhaust timing (variable timing)
- Seals and gaskets around the timing cover area
These parts work together to maintain synchronized valve timing across all eight cylinders. If wear or noise occurs, a professional inspection is advised.
Maintenance considerations and common issues
To keep the 5.7 Hemi timing chain in good shape, consider these maintenance guidelines and typical symptoms that warrant service.
- Listen for a faint rattle or ticking from the front of the engine on cold starts; this can indicate tensioner wear or chain slack.
- Regular oil changes with the correct viscosity are critical; dirty or low oil can accelerate wear on the tensioners and guides.
- During major service or if signs of wear appear, have the timing chain, guides, and tensioners inspected and replaced as a kit if necessary.
- If the engine exhibits misfire codes, rough idle, or timing-related symptoms, a professional diagnosis should confirm chain-related issues rather than a belt problem.
Proper maintenance and timely inspection are key; while the chain is designed for long life, age and mileage can introduce wear that affects timing accuracy.
Bottom line
The 5.7 Hemi uses a timing chain rather than a timing belt. This setup reduces the frequency of routine belt changes and aligns with the engine's modern design and MDS/VVT technologies, but it still benefits from regular maintenance and awareness of potential wear on tensioners, guides, and the chain itself.
Summary
In short, if you own or service a 5.7 Hemi, you can be confident the timing system relies on a chain rather than a belt. This choice reflects a durable, long-life design, with the caveat that wear can occur in aging engines and should be addressed by inspecting the chain assembly during service intervals. Staying on top of oil changes and listening for unusual engine noises will help ensure the timing chain stays in sync for many miles.
