Updated idler arms don't fit with 930 tensioners

[304065]

Here's a new one I think-- when updating a more modern car folks often need to use an aluminum spacer on the idler arm shaft in order to position the tensioner in the right place.

I think I have the opposite problem-- I have the new, wider, double-bushing idler arms, and when I try to fit them on the shafts of my '66, the 930 tensioner doesn't fit correctly. This is, I assume, due to the additional thickness of the idler arm.

Has anyone else faced this problem? I assume the solution is to revert back to the original idler arms with the 930 tensioners. Obviously Carrera tensioners are not an option, because I have to maintain an original appearance.

[john walker's workshop]

either go with new original style tensioners that have the thinner end or thin yours out to fit.

[304065]

Thanks John. What should I cut? The aluminum or the bronze?

[Steve@Rennsport]

Cut the aluminum.

[304065]

West Coast in the house! Thanks Gentlemen!

[304065]

I see where to cut.

[HarryD]

John,

I have some older arms if you want them. I wish I knew you might need them when I sent you the oil lines.

[304065]

Harry,

I appreciate that nice offer. I'm actually going to stick with the new idler arms and order some brand-spanking-new tensioners. As posted by Warren Hall a/k/a "Early_S_Man" a while back, in order to make the tensioner fit you have to remove 10mm from the mounting boss. But to do so requires that you cut through not only the boss but a supporting rib.

Not having (yet) a Bridgeport in my garage I'm going to offer the old tensioners for sale and hold on to my rebuild kits for the future. Nor do I wish to risk the whole project on my own engineering skillz. . . .