Is it possible to replace timing chain tensioner without removing engine

[Yuta]

Hello guys...

I have a plan of doing IMS and RMS... and meanwhile do some engine head work... I am thinking of taking of valve covers and replacing timing chain tensioners... Just wonder if it is possible with engine on the car... taking off the entire engine seems a little too much for me....I have never done that.... Thanks

[Scnell Gelb]

Do you mean the tensioning element that works the Variocam ,or the Tensioners? Significant difference in work involved.

[Yuta]

Originally Posted by Scnell Gelb

Do you mean the tensioning element that works the Variocam ,or the Tensioners? Significant difference in work involved.

I mean the timing chain tensioners...looking at the pictures, they are pretty easy to do.... I am wondering if there would be enough space to do it while engine in the car...

Also wonder if the valve covers can be take off while engine on the car... Any ideas?

[JFP in PA]

Originally Posted by Yuta

I mean the timing chain tensioners...looking at the pictures, they are pretty easy to do.... I am wondering if there would be enough space to do it while engine in the car...

Also wonder if the valve covers can be take off while engine on the car... Any ideas?

All four chain tensioners can be changed with the engine in the car. The cam covers can also be removed with the engine still in the car, but it is very tight. Both processes will also require specialized tooling (Porsche specific) to accomplish.

[Yuta]

Originally Posted by JFP in PA

All four chain tensioners can be changed with the engine in the car. The cam covers can also be removed with the engine still in the car, but it is very tight. Both processes will also require specialized tooling (Porsche specific) to accomplish.

Are you talking about the tool that lock camshafts in place? Looks like the valve cover also serves as camshaft holder... Do you have any idea where can I get the tool for cheap?

[JEC]

I replaced the two rear tensioners in my 2004 with the engine in the car but gave up on the one under the air conditioner compressor. Not sure where the forth one would be located?
You need to lower the engine to get to the one under the air conditor compressor which entails removing the coolant hoses.

[surfdwn]

I replaced my tensioners a year and a half ago with the engine in the car. It is a time consuming job, but straight forward, and the special tools make it a lot easier. Good luck!

David Nolen

'99 Boxster
'70 911

[JFP in PA]

Originally Posted by Yuta

Are you talking about the tool that lock camshafts in place? Looks like the valve cover also serves as camshaft holder... Do you have any idea where can I get the tool for cheap?

Unless you plan to fabricate your own tools, the word "cheap" would not be applicable to the conversation.

To change the tensioners, you will need a set of crank and cam shaft locking tools. To remove the cam covers, you will need the cam shaft retaining bars (a different tool); while all of this can be fabricated, you might be better off buying them (new or used) and then reselling them after you are done. If you are also planning on removing the cams or cam drives, you need yet another set of tools that is more year specific to reset the cam allocations when you reassemble the engine.

[Scnell Gelb]

Yuta,
How did you diagnose and confirm the chain tensioners need replacing? The plastic ramps/guides/pads usually deteriorate before the tensioners fail.

[Yuta]

Originally Posted by Scnell Gelb

Yuta,
How did you diagnose and confirm the chain tensioners need replacing? The plastic ramps/guides/pads usually deteriorate before the tensioners fail.

I hear some rattling sound during start up.... But once engine is started up... the rattling sound is gone..