Overview

We have seen a couple of single link timing chains on A12, which is the original A10 single row chain. Insist on the factory specified double-chain, like Nissan did for later A10s.
NOT GOOD

A rattle can be the trait of a stretched timing chain. Pinging/pinking has also often been mistaken for timing chain rattle

A-series engine has a short timing chain -- and with an automatic adjuster -- it rarely stretches or goes bad.

Compare to the loooooong chaing used in the Nissan KA24E engine:
click

KA24 often has timing chain problems

Replacement

Alignment

Check the cam gear alignment. It should be exactly like this:

If it is not, see Camshaft#Timing.

http://datsun1200.com/modules/myalbum/photos/thumbs/3640jpg

Part Numbers

The timing chain kit (timing set) includes: Cam, Crank, Chain, Tensioner

CLOYES Part # 94054S RockAuto.com $35.79
CLEVITE/PERFECT CIRCLE Part # 92602

Cam Sprocket

(38 teeth)

CLOYES Part # S47 RockAuto.com $9.41

Chain

Same as SRL311 with U20 engine (for Jackshaft)

CLOYES Part # S478 RockAuto.com $9.40
BECK/ARNLEY Part # 0240226

Tensioner

CLOYES Part # 95005 RockAuto.com $3.90

Crank Sprocket

19 teeth

CLOYES Part # S477 RockAuto.com $8.87

USA

B110 RAW LIST
13024-H8500 SPROCKET-CAMSHAFT
13024-18001 SPROCKET-CAMSHAFT
13082-18000 BOLT-CAMSHAFT SPROCKET
13030-18000 WASHER-CAMSHAFT
08915-2401A WASHER-LOCK
08915-14010 WASHER-LOCK
13028-18001 CHAIN-CAMSHAFT
13070-18001 ASSY-TENSIONER CHAIN
08120-63510 BOLT-FIXING CHAIN TENSIONER
08915-13610 WASHER-LOCK FIXING CHAIN TENSIONER

Adjustable Cam Gear

Fitting an adjustable Camshaft gear lets you fine tune the timing. The cam vendor's recommendations are usually best, but retarding the cam a degree or two will generall shift the torque curve higher up in the RPM range. Advancing the cam will (usually) lower the power curve a few RPM.