Resolved 1G Timing Belt Auto Tensioner

[The Snail]

Hey guys, I recently purchased a clean 1990 Laser RS in need of a head rebuild after spinning some teeth off the timing belt.

After deciding the goals on this car would be less than 300hp, because of the FWD and that it is limited budget as I'm still in high school I decided to build it first back up to stock specs.

BTW I'm not a dumbass kid who knows nothing. I've been reading up for years on these beauties and have always wanted one to be my first car. I got a few older DSM guys helping me out so that's not a problem.

Car has just over 300xxx KM on it, but after dissasembly it seems as if the engine does not, as we came across the cross hatching on the cylinder walls still visible, but who knows.

I do know for a fact tho the last timing belt job was done at around 270xxx KM after doing some research into the aircare dates and numbers and finding a date stamped on the auto tensioner to match up with last aircare date. We believe a combination of a cheap belt that was open to an oil leak and eroded over time, to explain going faulty after so little kilometers? Help me out on this one.

Which brings me to my question. Thoughts on replacing the auto tentioner? The date stamped on it is around this time of 2010, and with roughly 30,000KM on it. We compressed it slowly and properly, It has zero leaks, and seams to be in working condition.

I myself and another DSMer think It is okay to be put back, but I wanted your guys opinion. Please keep in mind, its easy to spend other peoples money over the internet, so I need what you would do answers.

So far I have purchased a brand new assembled head of ebay for $330
Gates timing belt kit
Alternater belt
Power Steering belt
New balance shaft pulley and belt
Fuel filter
Spark plugs and wires
Gates water pump
Full Fel-Pro gasket kit
Used AFR Head studs (less than 2000KM)
I believe there is more but I can't come to think of It right now.

As you can see I have not cheaped out yet so far but another $100 or so on the tensioner is a tough one. Plus it means not having my car on the road for a another week or so.

Also just to add, I also could purchase a different used one off the same guy who sold me the head bolts, It also has no leaks and less than 2000KM on It.
something to keep in mind.

So please guys, help me out on this one. Thanks

 

[DSMpimpin]

i changes the timing belts on my 99 and my 92 eclipse gst and both times i reused the tensioner and it works fine but, on both cars when i turn the car off and leave it in first gear instead of using the e break you will have some slack in the belt between the cam sprockets i never noticed it before i changed the belts but i am not worried about this because i put 30,000 miles on the 92 and i never had a problem with it.

 

[92AWDHX40]

Replace it with a new one or one you have knowledge of i used mine but i know when i bought it last so its stilll in great shape, not knowing the condition of it for a 100 dollar part could be a bad thing if if does break, i learned somethings are done right the first time or plan on doing it again spending more money. Even if it means waiting for funds for critical parts.

 

[The Snail]

Hey thanks for the quick replys guys.
After discovering infact mine was leaking, I didnt want to take the chance..Ive decided to go with the used one from my brothers buddy, Its a documented less than 2000km piece that was bought brand new for $130, and Im getting it for a good deal anyways.

 

[Laggg]

i would always suggest changing it when you change a belt, you dont wanna have to rebuild twice. but thats just me.

 

[Roberti 2G]

I just did my timing job I bought a new one from STM 103 dollars shipped. Cant go wrong with with new OEM parts man. Good luck with the work just take your time and double check everything and youll be good to go.