Hydraulic Tensioner to Idler Arm Gap? 3/16 (3mm) is that normal?

[strictly]

Is it normal for the idler arm to be able to move back and forward (float) on the shaft (i dont mean loose bushes), leaving a 3/16" (3mm) gap between it and the tensioner?

This is a 1984 3.2 with factory hydraulic tensioners. The only thing i can think off is the cam towers are earlier (3 bearing with solex cams, its on carbs). Here are some pictures

Left side - tensioner not bolted in



In this picture below, ive pulled the idler towards the tensioner, so the gap is now at the back


Right side - this has been running like this

[Flat6pac]

It s all good. Don't fret it. This has been covered several times in the last few months.
Bruce

[strictly]

ok cool phew! ive read most books cover to cover, but they don't tell you everything! Seemed unusual! I figured there must be some float to the chains, but it didnt think so much. Good to know its normal, i'll move on to something else to fret about lol