LQ4 Questions

[pilotXC]

I'm in the process of installing new gaskets and seals on my LQ4 before beginning the install and have a couple questions I'm hoping someone can help with...

1. Any issues anyone has seen or had doing the oil cooler block off?

2. Has anyone used an external oil cooler if the block off is not a good option, if so, suggestions on which one works well with our trucks (1972 K20 is mine).

3. How much slack is there supposed to be on the timing chain? Mine seems very loose, but I'm not sure how loose is ok or normal. Probably going to replace it anyway and add the gen IV dampener between the gears for some piece of mind but still curious.

My learning curve is vertical right now on all this, so thanks for the advice and help...

[mongocanfly]

while not a bad thing, id just do away with the oil cooler....many LS engines out there running without one...
LS timing chains ,even when new ,have a lot of slack

[MDPotter]

I got rid of my oil cooler provisions and used an LSX Innovations plate. I got mine with 1/8-27 NPT threads so I could thread in my oil pressure sender. You can get them blank too.