Katech C5-R Timing Chain

Developed through Katech’s long-standing involvement in professional endurance racing, the Katech C5-R Timing Chain has demonstrated exceptional durability and reliability. Across documented Corvette Racing programs and internal durability testing, no timing chain failures have been recorded, reinforcing its suitability for demanding LS & LT based racing and high-performance applications.

This timing chain design is derived from and utilized in Corvette Racing C5-R–based programs, with applications spanning the C5-R, C6.R, and C7.R eras, and has been proven in top-level endurance competition such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 24 Hours of Daytona.

The Katech C5-R timing chain is an easy replacement, timing chain that utilizes production sprockets (not included). Unlike typical double-roller race chains, this design does not require oil pump clearancing when used with a production-style oil pump, making it ideal for high-performance and endurance engines where reliability and serviceability are critical.

Compared to standard aftermarket IWIS-style timing chains, the Katech C5-R chain incorporates proprietary enhancements, including fine-blanked chain plates and a Katech-specified proprietary pin coating, improving fatigue resistance, wear characteristics, and long-term timing stability under sustained high-RPM operation.

Each genuine Katech LS C5-R Timing Chain is laser-engraved with the Katech logo for positive identification. This marking confirms the component as a Katech-exclusive offering, developed from Katech’s C5-R racing experience and supplied by Katech Engineering directly and through authorized distribution channels.

Key Features & Benefits

C5-R–Proven Durability
Developed from Katech’s involvement in professional endurance racing programs, this timing chain design has demonstrated exceptional reliability under sustained high-RPM and endurance conditions.

Production-Style Replacement Design
Designed to utilize production timing sprockets (not included), allowing straightforward installation without the complexity of specialty race-only components.

No Oil Pump Clearancing Required
Unlike many double-roller race chains, this design does not require oil pump clearancing when used with a production-style oil pump, preserving factory geometry and simplifying engine assembly.

Enhanced Fatigue and Wear Resistance
Incorporates fine-blanked chain plates and a Katech-specified proprietary pin coating to improve wear characteristics, fatigue resistance, and long-term timing stability.

Authenticity & Traceability
Each genuine Katech C5-R Timing Chain is laser-engraved with the Katech logo for positive identification, confirming it as a Katech-exclusive component supplied by Katech Engineering directly and through authorized distribution channels.

Technical Overview

The Katech LS C5-R Timing Chain is engineered for LS-based engines retaining standard production timing geometry. The design prioritizes strength, dimensional stability, and precise camshaft timing control, supporting aggressive camshaft profiles, elevated valve-spring loads, and sustained high-RPM operation typical of road racing and endurance applications.

By maintaining production-style chain geometry, the Katech C5-R timing chain ensures proper engagement with the crankshaft and camshaft sprockets while avoiding the fitment compromises and oil-pump clearance concerns commonly associated with double-roller conversions.

NOTE |  Proper installation, sprocket compatibility, and timing verification are critical. Professional engine assembly is strongly recommended.

Common Applications

• LS & LT based engines utilizing standard production timing geometry

• Road racing and endurance racing engines

• High-RPM naturally aspirated or forced-induction builds

• Performance street and track-day engines requiring increased timing chain durability

• Engines undergoing camshaft upgrades or timing service

Katech RHS Block C5-R Timing Chain

Developed through Katech’s involvement in professional endurance racing, the Katech HRS Block C5-R Timing Chain has demonstrated exceptional durability. Across documented C5-R racing programs and internal durability testing, no timing chain failures have been recorded, reinforcing its suitability for the most demanding LS-based racing applications.

This timing chain design is derived from and utilized in Corvette Racing C5-R–based programs, with applications spanning the C5-R, C6.R, and C7.R eras, and has been proven in top-level endurance competition such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and 24 Hours of Daytona.

The Katech C5-R race chain is an easy replacement, production-style timing chain that utilizes production sprockets (not included). Unlike typical double-roller race chains, this design does not require oil pump clearancing when used with a production-style oil pump.

Compared to standard aftermarket IWIS LS timing chains, the Katech C5-R chain incorporates proprietary enhancements, including fine-blanked chain plates and a Katech-specified proprietary pin coating, improving fatigue resistance, wear characteristics, and long-term timing stability under sustained high-RPM operation.

Each genuine Katech RHS Block C5-R Timing Chain is laser-engraved with the Katech logo for positive identification. This marking confirms the component as a Katech-exclusive offering, developed from Katech’s C5-R racing experience and supplied by Katech Engineering directly and through authorized distribution channels.

Key Features & Benefits

• Designed for RHS LS-Based Blocks

  • Engineered specifically to match RHS block timing geometry requiring C5-R–style chain length and engagement

• High-Strength Chain Construction

  • Built to withstand high RPM, aggressive cam profiles, and elevated valve-spring loads

• Precision Camshaft Timing Control

  • Maintains accurate cam timing under load, minimizing stretch and timing deviation

• Race-Validated Design

  • Derived from Katech’s professional motorsports and endurance racing experience

• Ideal for Competition & High-Performance Builds

  • Suitable for road race, endurance, track-day, and high-output LS applications

Technical Overview

This timing chain is optimized for RHS LS-based engine blocks that utilize C5-R–style timing architecture, ensuring correct engagement with the crank and cam sprockets while maintaining proper tension and alignment. The design prioritizes strength, fatigue resistance, and dimensional stability to support demanding race environments and extended high-RPM operation.

NOTE |  Proper installation, sprocket compatibility, and timing verification are critical. Professional engine assembly is strongly recommended.

Common Applications

• RHS LS-based engine blocks requiring C5-R timing chain configuration

• Professional and amateur road racing & endurance engines

• High-RPM naturally aspirated, or forced-induction LS builds

• Custom race engines where timing accuracy and durability are critical

Important Fitment Note

NOTE | This is the 62-link timing chain intended for RHS and Dart LS-based blocks, as well as Katech tall deck blocks with a raised camshaft position. It is not intended for standard production LS block timing geometry.

Why Choose Katech?

Since 1977, Katech Engineering has been trusted by racers, OEM programs, and performance enthusiasts worldwide for engineering-driven solutions proven under real-world race conditions.

Every Katech component reflects a commitment to technical accuracy, rigorous validation, and race-winning reliability. Designed and supported in Clinton Township, Michigan, the Katech C5-R Timing Chain represents decades of motorsports experience applied directly to modern LS & LT based performance engines.