Single-row vs double-row timing chain on the V8s

Early iron-block V8s and the 380 use a single-row timing chain whose plastic guides and tensioners become brittle with age; a skipped or jumped chain turns preventive maintenance into a major engine repair. A double-row conversion is quoted anywhere from sub-$2k DIY to $3-5k, while all 5.0-liter aluminum engines came with dual chains from the factory.