another chain tensioner question
 

I believe that my left side (driver side) tensioner is going out. On cold start up, I have a slight chain rattle sound in the lower left rear area. I have chased this rattle for some time. It only happens on start up after setting overnight, maybe for 2 minutes and it goes away. I suspect that overnight the tensioner bleeds back. I drive this car 100 miles a day. So during day, say lunch breaks, there is no chain rattle.

Here is my question. Do I have remove my distributor to gain access to check/replace the tensioner? After looking it over tonight, my thought is that I will have to remove it (bummer). I'm hoping that I'll just have to remove the distributor caps. But if I do have to remove the distributor, since it is a 3.2 twinplug (DME) (now a 3.4) will I get into timing trouble?

Your help would greatly be appreciated,

John

The distributor should be able to stay in. Only if you upgrade tensioners (on a pre Carrera engine) you will have to get the dist. out to change the cam oil line.

If it turns out that you have to remove the distributor, for whatever reason, there is no worries. Read the tech article on how to proceed. It does not matter how many plugs / cylinder you have. Same procedures apply.

Good Luck, George

Just thought I'd mention, I changed to pressure fed tensioners last winter and did NOT have to pull the distributor to change the oil lines over to the Carrera type. Come to think of it, I didn't even pull the plug wires off of the cap, just the coil wire, and moved the cap and wires out of the way.
(With a twin plug set up, you may have a few more wires to contend with than I did. ;) )
Les

Thanks,

I was concerned about the size of the distributor housing and being able to get to oil line to the tensioner off. Looks like I should have ordered those washers (2) for the oil line fittings. Anyone reuse them? May have to express them in as I plan to do this project on Saturday.

I think you're better off with new washers to minimize the number of oil leaks you have on your engine.

Will do. Since I am ordering express, I have oil leak at the top of my engine. It's not bad just annoying. It's running down the left side of the engine. Any idea what it could be so I can hopefully get the part in as will. Also, on the same side of the engine about at the 3 o’clock position (driver’s side) there is a sensor/switch thingy that may be leaking as well, o-ring? I would like to know what it is... The leaks are running down to the bottom of the engine and tranny. At fist I thought my main seal was leaking. Suggestion would be very greatly appreciated.