Ok this is starting to get frustrating. I now have to replace my tensioner again, for the third time. I just replaced it about 4 months ago. Could this be an issue with the actual timing chain?? Could the chain just be so strecthed that the tensioner is not doing anything???? How much does it cost to change the timing chain? How hard is it, is it a do it yourself job for someone who is pretty well inclined mechanically?? Billman, if you see this, did you ever complete your own design?

 

What are the symptoms? Is your head or block milled? I'm wondering it mine's getting noisy.

 

Stock block. no symptoms, just tensioner failing everytime.

 

Tensioner is VERY easy to replace. 10-20 minutes, ratchet and needle nose pillars.

 

So how do you know its failed?

 

I know its easy to replace, I have done it twice already, but its starting to get annoying not to mention $100 everytime. This part should last longer than this.

 

My point exactly Tugz_S2K, what are the symptoms of a failed tensioner?

 

Sorry, when its failing you will hear a knocking sound (chain slap) at idle and just above idle. Its like a clacking sound. It gets louder the longer you wait to change the tensioner. It goes away once you start moving and the RMP's climb.

 

This is confusing. First you ask these questions,

[QUOTE]..... How much does it cost to change the tensioner?

 

I'll be going on my fourth.

I finally got my garage bay back after a 5 month long job, I can devote some time to finishing the modded tensioner. stay tuned.