Auto tensioner/Tensioner pulley

[RossY]

I changed my timing belt today and all seems well but im a little worried about the auto tensioner. I read on vfaq how the two pin holes on the tensioner pulley should be slightly to the left of the center bolt. So i did that and tightened it down. Then i let the auto tensioner out and proceeded to turn the crank six times. I noticed as i was turning the crank that there was a specific part of the belt that seemed to have a little slack. I could follow it all the way around the pulleys and when the slack got to the auto tensioner the piston would extend a little more. What also bothers me is that when the slack isn't on the auto tensioner, the piston seems to be pushed all the way in. Im assuming this is bad. When i took the old belt off, i didn't have the special tool so i just pulled down on the tensioner pulley to compress the piston, and it wasn't too difficult. Exactly how much force is the piston supposed to put on the tensioner pulley because im thinking my auto tensioner may be bad.

Sorry for the length

Brian

 

[98TsiAWD]

Use a dial indicator and check the gap between the top edge of the tensioner and the bottom edge of the tensioner arm. It should be .15 to .18"

 

[BUCK]

http://www.vfaq.com/mods/timingbelt-2G.html

 

[RossY]

well, there are certain points when the tensioner is in spec, and other times when it's not. When im turning the crank, there are points when the tensioner is all the way in and then there are points when its where its supposed to be. I was just wondering if this is normal or if the tensioner arm is supposed to stay in the the same spot and not move at all. Like when its at tdc when your supposed to measure it, the tensioner is in spec. But if you turn the crank some the tensioner gets pushed in, then comes back out at tdc. Any insight?

 

[Defiant]

Jesus, how old's that part? Adjust it at its loosest point. Loose is what lets them jump.

 

[RossY]

Jesus, how old's that part? .

Old...Very old.




yes, im replacing it