Chevrolet Repair: 1993 K Blazer timing chain, power steering pump, 4 wd

Question
Van: I have a 1993 K Blazer 4 WD (350) with 314,000 original engine miles. Runs fine, but I'm thinking of changing the timing chain as a precaution. (A)Do I have to remove (1) the radiator, (2) the water pump (3) the oil pan, for access to do this? (B) Should the gears be changed too, or just the chain? (C)Any tips or problems I should know about? Thanks, Ron

Answer
Hi Ron,
The radiator doesn't really need to be removed, but as easy as it is to remove, send it to be cleaned and tested, and it will be out of the way.
Water pump...yes, as well as most of the a/c, alternator, power steering pump, and possibly air pump brackets.
The oil pan probably not.
And defanitely replace the gears with the chain....if you replace the chain.
Personally, I would check for slack in the chain, and maybe not replace it. If there is enough wear in the chain and gears to need replacing, the rest of the oil lubricated parts are probably worn as well.
Good luck,
Van