Peter,

Since I have a new tensioner on the way, I dissembled the old one this morning. I couldn’t see anything internally that would resemble a ratchet. It looked like its only function was that of oil pressure pressing a plunger out with the help of a spring. Can’t speak to the new tensioner though as I haven’t see it yet.

Checked the timing marks this morning and found the crank to read "zero" What a relief, as I really didn't want to tackle the chain itself. I know that this stretch check is not as accurate as that with a dial caliper but given the result, would you think that the chain rail would need attention? I couldn’t see how one would remove the rail without removing the chain first.

Thanks much…

Mav

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'91 350SDL 165K miles
Lovin' her until she blows...
'01 Dodge Ram Cummins 4X4 DWR
Stump pullin' beast...