I just did the headgasket on my m30 thats going in my e30. Figured out a quick and easy way to keep the timing chain in place, so it dosen't jump any teeth. After using Jordan's advice to use zip ties around the chain and cam pulley I did that, but after unbolting the head, etc. all I did was take off the cam sproket, and I wedged the cap to a spray can under the sproket and block, thus keeping the assembly standing up and avoding any hassles trying to keep it taunt by other ways.
Worked great, and I can;t wait to get the late m30 in there, complete with chip, intake, exhaust, and also sans AC, cat., and posibly power steering. Just thought I'd share this helpful tip, I don't know if it'll work on an m20 with the timing belt, but for a timing chain engine it seems to be a quick easy and working method.
-Steve Pingel
Worked great, and I can;t wait to get the late m30 in there, complete with chip, intake, exhaust, and also sans AC, cat., and posibly power steering. Just thought I'd share this helpful tip, I don't know if it'll work on an m20 with the timing belt, but for a timing chain engine it seems to be a quick easy and working method.
-Steve Pingel