Question about Timing Chain Tensioners...... - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

deerefanatic · #1 02-11-2007, 10:51 PM

So,

It appears that the excessive leakage I've been having with this timing chain tensioner ordeal is due to an incorrectly machined Tensioner......

I think this for the following reasons:

1. It always leaks a little between the spring retaining cap and the tensioner body due to a gouge in the metal seating surface for the crush washer.

2. It always leaks between the tensioner body and the gasket, never the block and gasket........... And always in the same place (Along the bottom edge, and all around the lower rear mounting bolt.)

So, here's my question:

Can I reuse my old Chain Tensioner? I've replaced the timing chain now with new (0 degrees stretch using the cam tower marks and reading off the harmonic balancer..). I have a brand new tensioner spring too. I have heard that the tensioner spring can fail (which is obviously bad!!) but never heard much in the way of the tensioner itself failing..... It seems that if anything were to fail, it would be the plunger thing, not the body of the tensioner itself.......

Could I re-install my old tensioner, and use my new tensioner's plunger and spring in it? Does anyone for see any serious risks here?

Thanks guys.

Ken300D · #2 02-12-2007, 08:12 AM

I have heard of many people reusing the 617 tensioners since they are not really a high-wear item. Replacing the spring as you are doing is recommended. I'm sure you know that you have to reset the ratcheting mechanism.

Should be OK to reuse the tensioner as long as the push rod is not deformed in some way at the end that touches the chain rail.

Ken300D

deerefanatic · #3 02-12-2007, 11:51 AM

Ya, I know to reset the ratchet..........

I'm gonna check the tensioner for warp..... Just got off the phone with DieselGiant and he informed me that I've torqued that tensioner down WAAYYY to tight, maybe that's my problem.

Time to hall out the straight-edge!

Maybe the new one's ok after all.............