Cam tensioner question
 

I just installed hydraulic cam tensioners on an 83 3.0. When i put the newones on there is a space between the sprocket arm and the ring part of the new tensioner. How much is acceptable space? I have almost an eighth of an inch.

HI richard
have you pulled the pin out of the tensioner?? or is the 1/8 on the shaft pin between the idler arm and the inside of the tensioner.

regards mike

The 83 has all the pieces to fit correctly. The usual problem is about 1/2 inch space that needs the spacer
This is the spacer senario
Bruce


http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1328637858.jpg

That is were i have an tenth of an inch... Thanks. It just seems they should be less space inbetween them...

So, the small space I have is ok? Just need to make sure... Thanks Bruce for the picture.

The small space is OK if you're sure the tensioner is seated all the way into the chain housing. Tap it with a rubber mallet to make sure. Then check the fitment of your chain housing cover with the o-ring removed from the chain tensioner port. Reason to remove the o-ring is to ensure it doesn't interfere with checking the fitment of the cover. The o-ring usually requires you to use some decent effort to seat cover.

Also, anybody else searching this thread should take some good advice and upgrade their idler arms if they are using the spacer that Bruce mentions. The old idler arms that are bushing-less are prone to binding. In Sept. I had my left idler arm bind on the shaft and cause my engine to lose power. It froze in a high-tension chain position, so thankfully the chain didn't go slack and jump timing.

A spacer scenario or a great place for a Supertec idler arm....SmileWavy

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1328648910.jpg
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1328648931.jpg

Thank everyone for your replies.. all buttoned up for that part anyway...