Timing chain on a budget

[Bazzalucas]

Hi, my recently installed 1275 has a rattly timing chain. I can buy a new chain, gasket and seal for 17 dollars US (which is handy since that's where I live!). My question is, how necessary is it to replace the gears as well, since that's a bit of a jump in price. I look forward, as I always do, to your responses.

[Mogwai]

Changing the chain on its own will be ok as long as the teeth are not badly worn. is it the duplex type or single row with a tensioner?

[Bazzalucas]

It's a 1974 1275 from a Midget, so I assume it's duplex. Did the duplex have tensioners?

[bmcecosse]

No tensioner on the duplex as standard - although the later Mini tensioner set-up can be used with duplex. Are you sure it's chain rattle ? Not usually a problem with duplex - but then it's just possible someone has fitted a simplex set-up in the past. I would say either leave it - or go the full shilling and fit a complete new set with new sprockets. A new chain on worn sprockets will just be a waste of money.

[Bazzalucas]

I put a stethoscope on the engine, and the noise seems to be coming from the timing cover. However, I wouldn't describe it as a "rattle"-
but this is my first "A" series engine, so what do I know?