I have tensioner from the head that is being replaced. That head had experienced a seized bearing at the rear of the intake cam... I'm wondering about reusing the tensioner on the replacement head. Especially at $180. for a replacement. But in reading this note on the parts website I'm having second thoughts...

"Due to possible excessive engine oil sludge build up, prior to tensioner installation, close inspection and removal of all oil sludge build up in all oil pressure passageways associated with the tensioner in the cylinder head is highly recommended, reduced pressure or excessive sludge build up may prevent proper tensioning function and possible premature failure of the electric solenoid portion of the tensioner."

The tensioner I have LOOKS fine but now I'm second guessing myself. Any experienced engine builders with some insight? Thanks

 

I just replaced mine because I though it was causing a rattling noise. Turns out it was my timing belt tensioner that was failing and it was my timing belt rattling against the belt housing that was making the noise. For the the $180.00, it's piece of mind. The one I took out was fine, but after 13 years and over 200,000 km's, Iit's probably just a matter of time before it breaks.

 

My rule is, if you can't afford to maintain your car properly, you probably should just buy a Honda/toyota

 

Can you please explain further of this rattling noise you have? I think I have the same issue.

Is it coming from front of the car near the fan?

 

There is a large black plastic cover on the front of the engine which houses the timing belt. I'm my case, the belt tensioner was no longer working so the belt was very loose. All I did to figure out that this is where the noise was coming from was to pop my hood, start my car, and then with the engine running, put my hand on the black cover and apply pressure towards the engine. As soon as the cover was touching the timing belt inside, the noise went away.

If you have the same issue, I would suggest you don't start your car again until you have a new timing belt tensioner installed and because of what you have to do to get to it, you might as well do the entire timing belt job. You probably already know this, but if your belt slips a notch or breaks, you have an interference engine and all your valves will get bent and it means a very expensive engine rebuild or replacement.

Good luck!

 

haha, maybe I make it more clear then. I definitely don't have this rattle but more like a ticking sound. Glad you fix your problem and hope it didn't damage anything internally.