Abstract: On a multi-cylinder combustion engine with two overhead camshafts 7, 8, sprocket wheels 9 and 10 are mounted on the camshafts between adjacent cams in such a way that they are engaged by a drive chain 12 in opposite directions with an arc of contact exceeding 90.degree.. The chain 12 is driven by a drive sprocket 13 which is connected to a gear 14, which in turn is engaged with gear teeth 15 on the crankshaft 3. The non-driving strand of chain 12 is guided above sprocket wheel 9 by a curved guide rail 16, which is also designed to serve as a chain tensioner.