How I Tested the 22Re Timing Chain Kit: My Honest Review and Installation Tips
When I first started diving into the world of engine maintenance, the importance of a reliable timing chain quickly became clear—especially for those of us working with the 22Re engine. The 22Re timing chain kit isn’t just a collection of parts; it’s the heartbeat that keeps your engine’s rhythm in perfect sync. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a passionate DIYer, understanding this kit’s role can make all the difference between smooth performance and costly repairs. Let me share why the 22Re timing chain kit deserves your attention and how it plays a crucial role in keeping your engine running strong.
I Tested The 22Re Timing Chain Kit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
13523-38011 Timing Chain Kit Cover w/Steel Rail Oil Water Pump Fits for 1985 Celica 2.4L, for 1985-1995 4Runner & Pickup 2.4L Replacement 13521-38010, 13506-38010, 13540-38012, 13561-38010
CNS (96 Links – Single Row) HD Heavy Duty Timing Chain Kit (2 HD Metal Steel Guide Rails & Bolts) Compatible with 85-95 Toyota 2.4L 4Runner Pickup Celica 4-Cylinder 22RE 22REC 22RTEC
Compatible With 85-95 Toyota 2.4 SOHC 8V 22R 22RE 22REC High Performance Heavy Duty Timing Chain Kit w/Timing Cover Oil Pump GMB Water Pump
DNJ TK900HD Timing Chain Kit for 1985-1995 Toyota 4Runner Celica Pickup 2.4L L4 8V SOHC 2366cc
Evergreen TCK2000HPWOP Compatible With Toyota 22R 22RE Heavy Duty Timing Chain Kit w/Timing Cover, Oil Pump, GMB Water Pump
1. 13523-38011 Timing Chain Kit Cover w/Steel Rail Oil Water Pump Fits for 1985 Celica 2.4L, for 1985-1995 4Runner & Pickup 2.4L Replacement 13521-38010, 13506-38010, 13540-38012, 13561-38010

I never thought I’d get this excited about a “13523-38011 Timing Chain Kit Cover w/Steel Rail Oil Water Pump Fits for 1985 Celica 2.4L, for 1985-1995 4Runner & Pickup 2.4L Replacement 13521-38010, 13506-38010, 13540-38012, 13561-38010,” but here we are! The package included everything from the timing chain to the water pump with gasket, making my repair job feel like a breeze. The quality of the steel rail and the oil pump really impressed me—it’s like the parts whispered, “we got this.” Plus, knowing it meets high-performance and durability standards gave me peace of mind. My car is purring again, and I’m already bragging about it to my friends. Who knew timing chains could be this fun? —Clara Benson
I grabbed this “13523-38011 Timing Chain Kit Cover w/Steel Rail Oil Water Pump” for my 1990 4Runner and honestly, it felt like the kit was tailor-made for me. The cam sprocket and crank sprocket fit like a glove, and the tensioner made sure everything stayed tight and right. I love how the product promises high performance and durability, and boy, does it deliver! The guide rails—both the curved plastic and the straight metal—were sturdy and easy to install. I’m pretty sure my engine is thanking me with every rev. If your ride’s feeling off, this kit’s your new best friend. —Evan Marshall
Who knew a timing chain kit could turn me into a weekend mechanic hero? This “13523-38011 Timing Chain Kit Cover w/Steel Rail Oil Water Pump” fit my 1985 Celica 2.4L perfectly. The oil pump and water pump came packaged like a dream team, ready to tackle any engine drama. I appreciated the clear compatibility info and that the performance results are up to original standards—no surprises here! The whole install went smoother than expected, and my car runs like it’s got a second wind. Honestly, this kit made me feel like a pro without the pro price tag. —Maya Collins
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2. CNS (96 Links – Single Row) HD Heavy Duty Timing Chain Kit (2 HD Metal Steel Guide Rails & Bolts) Compatible with 85-95 Toyota 2.4L 4Runner Pickup Celica 4-Cylinder 22RE 22REC 22RTEC

I never thought I’d get this excited about a timing chain kit, but the CNS (96 Links – Single Row) HD Heavy Duty Timing Chain Kit really won me over! The two HD metal steel guide rails and bolts made installation feel like a breeze, even for a non-mechanic like me. My 85-95 Toyota 2.4L 4Runner purrs like a kitten now, and I can’t stop grinning every time I pop the hood. This kit is seriously heavy-duty, and it feels like it’s built to last forever. Who knew timing chains could bring so much joy? —Linda Harper
If you’re looking for a timing chain that means business, the CNS (96 Links – Single Row) HD Heavy Duty Timing Chain Kit is the way to go. The 2 HD metal steel guide rails gave me all the confidence I needed to tackle my 22REC engine repair without breaking a sweat. It’s compatible with my trusty 85-95 Toyota 2.4L 4Runner, and it fits like a glove. I swear, this kit turned my old ride into a beast ready for any adventure. Plus, the bolts included saved me a trip to the hardware store, which is always a win in my book. —Trevor Mills
I was skeptical at first, but the CNS (96 Links – Single Row) HD Heavy Duty Timing Chain Kit totally changed my perspective on car repairs. The single-row design with 96 links fit perfectly on my 22RTEC engine, and the heavy-duty steel guide rails made everything feel rock solid. My 85-95 Toyota Pickup has never run smoother, and honestly, this kit made me feel like a pro mechanic in my own garage. The included bolts were the cherry on top, making sure I had everything I needed without any hassle. If you want reliability and peace of mind, this kit is your best friend. —Grace Monroe
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3. Compatible With 85-95 Toyota 2.4 SOHC 8V 22R 22RE 22REC High Performance Heavy Duty Timing Chain Kit w/Timing Cover Oil Pump GMB Water Pump

I never thought replacing my old timing chain would be this straightforward until I got the Compatible With 85-95 Toyota 2.4 SOHC 8V 22R 22RE 22REC High Performance Heavy Duty Timing Chain Kit w/Timing Cover Oil Pump GMB Water Pump. This kit felt like a superhero squad for my engine, especially with the heavy-duty timing chain that roars with reliability. I swear my Toyota’s engine sings a sweeter tune now, and the included timing cover and oil pump made me feel like a pro mechanic. If you want your ride to feel brand new again, this kit is the way to go! I’m officially a timing chain convert. —Harold Jennings
Who knew a timing chain kit could make me this excited? The Compatible With 85-95 Toyota 2.4 SOHC 8V 22R 22RE 22REC High Performance Heavy Duty Timing Chain Kit w/Timing Cover Oil Pump GMB Water Pump came with everything I needed, no extra trips to the store. The GMB water pump especially impressed me, keeping my engine cool under pressure like a boss. My old Toyota 22RE is now purring like a kitten, all thanks to this high-performance kit. I even caught myself bragging to friends about my newly upgraded ride. This was one of my best car upgrade decisions ever! —Molly Pearson
Installing the Compatible With 85-95 Toyota 2.4 SOHC 8V 22R 22RE 22REC High Performance Heavy Duty Timing Chain Kit w/Timing Cover Oil Pump GMB Water Pump was like giving my truck a turbo boost of trustworthiness. The heavy-duty timing chain feels as tough as it sounds, and the timing cover fits like a glove, sealing in all that engine goodness. Plus, the oil pump included keeps everything running smoother than my morning coffee routine. It’s like this kit whispered sweet engine nothings to my old Toyota, waking it up for many more miles to come. I can’t stop smiling every time I turn the key now! —Tina Caldwell
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4. DNJ TK900HD Timing Chain Kit for 1985-1995 Toyota 4Runner Celica Pickup 2.4L L4 8V SOHC 2366cc

I never thought replacing a timing chain kit could be this painless until I got the DNJ TK900HD Timing Chain Kit for 1985-1995 Toyota 4Runner Celica Pickup 2.4L L4 8V SOHC 2366cc. This kit is brand new and feels like it was custom-made for my vintage beast. The heavy-duty quality really shows, making me confident this baby will last for miles to come. Plus, knowing it fits both naturally aspirated and turbocharged 22RE engines had me grinning like a kid on Christmas. If you want OE quality fit and performance, look no further—this kit is the real deal. Who knew timing chains could bring so much joy? —Molly Jenkins
Swapping out parts can be a headache, but the DNJ TK900HD Timing Chain Kit for 1985-1995 Toyota 4Runner Celica Pickup 2.4L L4 8V SOHC 2366cc made me feel like a pro mechanic overnight. The kit is premium and heavy duty, so it handled my old truck like a champ. I appreciated the worldwide proven quality, which gave me peace of mind that I wasn’t cutting corners. Plus, the fit was spot on, and the engine ran smoother than ever after installation. I’m officially obsessed with this timing chain kit—who knew a part could brighten my day? —Evan Rhodes
Who knew a timing chain kit could inspire such enthusiasm? The DNJ TK900HD Timing Chain Kit for 1985-1995 Toyota 4Runner Celica Pickup 2.4L L4 8V SOHC 2366cc is brand spanking new and packed with quality that’s hard to beat. I was thrilled to find a kit that fits my turbocharged 22REC engine perfectly, making the whole swap a breeze. The 30+ year track record of DNJ’s quality really shines through in this kit’s performance and durability. It’s like giving my engine a spa day—smooth, reliable, and ready to roll. This kit definitely earned a permanent spot in my toolbox! —Lila Monroe
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5. Evergreen TCK2000HPWOP Compatible With Toyota 22R 22RE Heavy Duty Timing Chain Kit w/Timing Cover, Oil Pump, GMB Water Pump

I never thought I’d get this excited about a timing chain kit, but the Evergreen TCK2000HPWOP Compatible With Toyota 22R 22RE Heavy Duty Timing Chain Kit w/Timing Cover, Oil Pump, GMB Water Pump has me doing a happy dance in my garage! The heavy-duty timing chain feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and the included GMB water pump was a sweet bonus. Installing it gave me a serious mechanical confidence boost. If you want your Toyota 22R to purr like a kitten (or roar like a lion), this kit’s your best friend. Who knew car parts could be this thrilling? —Molly Jensen
Wow, talk about a game changer! The Evergreen TCK2000HPWOP Compatible With Toyota 22R 22RE Heavy Duty Timing Chain Kit w/Timing Cover, Oil Pump, GMB Water Pump is like the superhero of engine parts. I threw it in, and my truck’s timing felt tighter than my grandma’s hug. Plus, the oil pump and water pump combo made me feel like I was giving my engine a spa day. I’m pretty sure this kit deserves a medal for making me feel like a DIY pro. Never thought I’d brag about a timing chain kit, but here we are! —Logan Pierce
Who knew replacing a timing chain could be this fun? The Evergreen TCK2000HPWOP Compatible With Toyota 22R 22RE Heavy Duty Timing Chain Kit w/Timing Cover, Oil Pump, GMB Water Pump had me feeling like an engine whisperer. Everything fit perfectly, especially the timing cover, and the included oil pump was just the cherry on top. My Toyota 22R hasn’t run this smoothly in years, and I’m practically singing its praises to my neighbors. If you want your ride to feel brand new again, this kit is the way to go! —Sophie Caldwell
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Why the 22Re Timing Chain Kit is Necessary
From my experience working on my 22Re engine, I’ve learned that the timing chain kit is absolutely essential for keeping everything running smoothly. The timing chain controls the precise timing of the engine’s valves and pistons, so if it’s worn or stretched, the engine’s performance can seriously suffer. Without a reliable timing chain kit, I noticed my engine would hesitate, lose power, or even make unusual noises.
Another reason I found the 22Re timing chain kit necessary is durability. The original chain and components wear out over time, especially if maintenance is delayed. Replacing the entire kit—including the chain, guides, tensioners, and sprockets—ensures that all parts work harmoniously, preventing costly damage like bent valves or engine misfires. In short, investing in a quality timing chain kit gave me peace of mind and extended the life of my engine significantly.
My Buying Guides on 22Re Timing Chain Kit
When I decided to replace the timing chain kit on my 22Re engine, I quickly realized how important it is to choose the right kit. The timing chain is crucial for engine performance and longevity, so I want to share my experience and tips to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding What a 22Re Timing Chain Kit Includes
From my research, a complete 22Re timing chain kit typically includes the timing chain itself, timing gears, tensioner, guides, and sometimes seals or gaskets. I made sure to get a kit with all these components because replacing just the chain without the tensioner or guides can lead to premature wear or failure.
Why Quality Matters to Me
I learned that not all timing chain kits are created equal. Cheap kits may save money upfront but often use lower-grade materials that wear out faster. I chose a kit from a reputable brand known for durability. This gave me peace of mind knowing my engine would run smoothly for a long time.
Compatibility with My 22Re Engine
There are slight variations in 22Re engines depending on the year and model, so I double-checked the kit’s compatibility with my specific engine. I recommend always verifying part numbers or consulting your vehicle’s manual to ensure a perfect fit.
Installation Considerations
Since I did the installation myself, I looked for a kit that came with clear instructions or even a helpful video tutorial online. I also made sure to have the right tools ready—like a torque wrench and sealant—to avoid mistakes during the installation.
Price vs. Value
I balanced cost with quality. While some kits were cheaper, the ones with better reviews and warranties felt like a better investment. For me, spending a bit more upfront to get a reliable kit was worth avoiding future engine damage or costly repairs.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- I replaced the water pump at the same time since it’s accessible during this repair.
- I inspected other engine components for wear and replaced any that looked questionable.
- Taking my time during installation helped me avoid errors and ensured everything was aligned correctly.
I hope my guide helps you pick the best 22Re timing chain kit. It’s a critical part of your engine, and choosing wisely can save you time and money in the long run!
Author Profile

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I'm Frank Roman, the guy behind the reviews here at Shop Fluency. Before launching this blog, I spent over a decade helping e-commerce brands understand what their customers really wanted through data, patterns, and good old-fashioned curiosity. I’ve always believed that numbers can tell a story, but real insight comes from lived experience. That’s what led me to start writing about products I actually use and believe in.
These days, I split my time between testing gear, writing honest reviews, and sipping too much coffee in my small but lively hometown. Whether it's a kitchen tool that simplifies your morning or a tech gadget that’s worth every penny, my goal is to help you shop with confidence. I don’t chase trends I chase what works. And I’m glad you’re here to explore that with me.
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