Having recently had my head off my M130 engine, I dismantled this very tensioner and found the O-ring was fresh and pliable so I put it back together. No leaks.

If you look smack under the thermostat housing you will find a giant bolt-head. This is the tensioner. It uses a spring to hold the chain taute (sp?), and I think the engine oil contributes a hydraulic pressure as well, hence the O-ring seal.

Oddly enough though, the valve covers don't really leak all that much. Just three bolts to hold down the cover and a reusable rubber gasket does the job. Amazing really. Must help to have a vertical engine.

__________________
Ed
1981 300CD (Benzina)
1968 250 S (Gina) 266,000 miles!
1983 Alfa Romeo GTV6 (Guido)
1976 Jaguar XJS-saved a V-12 from the chevy curse, what a great engine!
1988 Cadillac Eldorado (better car than you might think!)
1988 Yamaha Venture (better than a Wing!)
1977 Suzuki GS750B
1976 Yamaha XS 650 (sold)
1991 Suzuki GSX1100G (Shafty Gixser)
1981 Yamaha VX920RH (Euro "Virago")
Solex Moped
1975 Dodge P/U camper


"Time spent in the company of a cat, a beer, and this forum, is not time wasted!"