if you do not have a ratcheting tensioner it is very important that you replace the spring. If you do have one it isn't such an issue, but provides an essential 'initial setting'. The spring is cheap and serves a function in both cases - replace it! You will not need a new tensioner unless the piston does alot of wiggling in its housing.

You will need to remove the entire tensioner for this project, replace the gasket behind the tensioner.

You should read a few threads on chain life expectancy.

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php3?t=75180

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