I just changed out the timing chain tensioner without using the access hole on the front of the head.

I guess if you don't need to access that opening to pull the pin then you can change the tensioner without pulling the blower.

It is straight forward and easy.

Below the Vtec solenoid there is the timing chain tensioner (TCT). Click on the photos for close up views.



There are 4 bolts on it. All 10mm wrench or socket.
Two bolts hold the TCT to the engine. In this photo there are 3 bolts lined up and only the two lower are the TCT. The top one is on the Vtec solenoid.



Remove the two bolts holding the TCT to the engine and leave the two that hold the small plate in place. Gently remove the TCT keeping the assembly together. I suggest a shop towel or rag for the oil that will drain from the TCT when removed. The towel can catch the parts that fly out when it comes loose. I've lost several in the past.

If the TCT does not come out easily I suggest tapping lightly on the side with a plastic screw driver handle. A small screw driver to help it start out can be helpful. It does have two o-rings and tends to pop out easily after getting started.

Installing a new or used TCT you want to avoid the pull pin routine and thus the front inspection port.
The use of a M5 bolt eliminates the need for the pull pin.
The TCT is oriented in the photos the way you would find it when you access it on the engine.



There is a small plate on the tensioner held on with two bolts and using an O-ring. Loosen the bolt on the left side two turns then remove the bolt on the right side.
Swivel the plate down.



Using a large screw driver remove the oil jet.





Insert the M5 bolt and engage the threads internally until finger snug. Use the nut to hold it in place. This holds the assembly together.



On a new TCT insert the M5 bolt assembly and make finger tight. Release the pin.

Install TCT with the plate open and the M5 installed holding the assembly tight. After tightening the 2 bolts holding the tensioner to the head, release the internal assembly by removing the M5 bolt assembly.

Install the oil jet back where the M5 was.

Gently swivel the plate back up and over the O-ring and install the bolt. Make sure the O-ring in the plate is in place. Tighten both bolts holding the plate on.

You are done if you re-inserted the oil jet. It you didn't, go do it now.

There are other posts about modifying the TCT to eliminate the tick.

This thread is to reinforce how easy it is to remove and replace the TCT with a supercharger blocking the access port. If you don't have a supercharger this method will still work.

Now, is it worth $200 to have a dealer do this?

 

Good write up. This is how they have the instructions for the TCT removal in the Helms manual. For the install though, they have you pulling the M5 bolt and nut after setting the pin and then putting the TCT back on and pulling the pin. I dont know why they have it this way when the M5 bolt and nut way with going back on will work also as you have shown.

 

theres more than one way to skin a cat.. nice write up

 

this should be stickied

 

Great write up Sideways!

 

My turbo doesn't get in the way.

Another reason turbo>sc

good writeup man!!

 

Nice, but I was able to remove the pin using a mirror and 90 degree needle nose pliers with my blower still installed.

 

nice write up, thumbs up to alternatives

 

Same here

 

I have a new TCT to install and I'm going to install it via this method, regarding removing the Pin - do you mean remove completely once the m5 bolt has been inserted?

Thanks