Can we upgrade a M119 manual belt tensioner to automatic tensioner?

[gsxr]

Hey everyone,

I picked up a spare 1992 500E engine earlier this year, which I'd like to drop into my car for test purposes (to make sure it runs ok, no leaks, etc). Problem is, the 1992 engine has the old manual belt tensioner, and wide 8-groove pulleys. My 1994-95 cars have the later style automatic belt tensioner, and 6-groove pulleys. I couldn't find an answer by searching the forum, just some info that indicates the AC bracket may be different, and I might need to use a slightly shorter belt. Austin thought that someone (Neil?) already tried this and found that a new-style timing cover is also needed - ugh. Anyone BT, DT?

I hate the manual tensioner, I'd really prefer not to use that. And even if I did use the manual tensioner, there's a possibility the 6-groove pulleys may not work with it, which would also be a serious problem. *sigh*

Any info would be appreciated - thanks!

[hs_300e]

I am interested in the same. Would appreciate any insights.

[gsxr]

From what I could tell, the main problem is that you need the late style timing cover. This is a royal PITA to replace by itself (it would be much easier with either the oil pan or heads removed). I haven't yet determined if the AC bracket must also be swapped, or if the 6/8 rib belts & pulleys are interchangeable. I plan to try and convert the '92 engine to a 6-rib pulley setup with manual tensioner for now, and later on swap the cover and convert to automatic tensioner.