Tensioner update help?

78-911SC · 06-07-2004, 06:20 PM

I am doing some updates on my 78SC starting with new bushings front and rear. Put Chuck's polybronze on the front and new shocks on all four corners. Had a set of turbo brakes for a year and a half and finally sent them to VCI for the mod and installed them. Now I'm trying to do the tensioner update and have a questioned.I have the tensioner installed with the retaining pins still in and I have some play in the chain sprocket idler arms. About 1/4 to 3/8 of an inch on the post(front to back) and I'm not sure if this is because I haven't pulled the retaining pins or if idler arms are bad. The play is on both sides. Wayne in his book mentioned that the early cars need spacers for the chain sprocket idler arms but I'm not sure what years are the early years. Anyone have any knowledge in this area?
Thanks PJ

aigel · aigel's Garage

You need the idler arm upgrade or the spacer that wayne shows in his book. I highly recommend NOT to use the spacer but go with the new idler arms. They come with a bronze bushing too, which will help avoid cocking on the shaft. The factory installed the wider idler arms in 80 and up, so your car is considered "early" if it comes to the idler arms!

Good Luck,

George

78-911SC · 06-08-2004, 06:04 AM

Do I just get the sprocket supports right and left or do I need to change out the tensioning sprockets too? What about the shaft?

Thanks
PJ

aigel · aigel's Garage

I think you can buy the idler base only and reuse the sprocket.

Pelican sells the kits. http://www.pelicanparts.com/catalog/shopcart/911M/POR_911M_enginR_pg3.htm#item10

The shaft is part of the housing, no need to change that.

Get Wayne's engine rebuild book, if you don't have it yet. It will have some more pointers and illustrations. There is also a tech article on the upgrade.

Cheers, George