Cam Timing and Tensioner Installation
 

I'm new here and to my 1978 SC Targa. I'm learning a lot from everyone here. (Thank you) I was wondering why cam timing is done with the tensioners removed? I have read a lot of posts with some type of tool being used to hold tension of the chains while the timing is set. Wouldn't having the tensioner installed do the same thing?

Eric

The tensioners will do the job unless youre so perfect that you can hit the right cam and left cam on the exact perfect number, having no stretch left in the chain, no variance, and not use the window of opportunity the spec gives in the .2 to .3mm of acceptable spec.
Bruce

The problem with using the tensioners is that they will "pop out" to full extension if you can't keep the sprockets firmly on the cams when you remove the nuts to make an adjustment. You would then have to collapse them again when you put the sprocket back on.

-Andy

Interesting. Thanks guys