I can't for the life of me get the Timing Chain Tensioner bolt to tread. The spring is to much for my little fingers to overcome. Please does anyone have a trick to this. I don't want to take off the smog pump.

I have struggled with this a time or two on the 617 engines. The way I do it is to back out the plug behind the spring until it is down to the last 4-5 threads then start the tensioner mounting bolts. I use a socket on the plug to PUSH hard until I can get the mounting bolts started then tighten everything down. You can do it this way but it will wear you out.

Have you taken the tensioner mechanism out and "recycled" the plunger? If not, do not try to force anything.

I believe it would be really helpful to get your hands on a diagram of the tensioner. You need to thoroughly understand how it works to prevent any damage. If you have restarted the plunger, it should go in easily.

Good luck,

I am happy to say that my 190 E is back up and running well. Thanks to all who helped. Hope this thread can help others. Larry thanks for your detailed responses and time, it made a world of difference.

I still have one problem with the car. It still has a sight vibration on heavy acceleration between 25-34 mph. It only happens on acceleration. It's got me stumped. I replaced the rt, lt, and center tie rods, damper, idler arm, front shocks, and mounts. Had the car aligned and wheels balanced. Very little change.

Thanks again
Neil M