Timing Belt tensioner measurement

[LKWTSI]

Just got done putting my new timing belt on and after following the directions from various threads and VFAQ, I figured I'd post a picture of what I couldn't find anywhere, of the correct measurement of the tensioner pin and the tensioner arm after setting your timing belt and rotating your engine and letting the belt sit and stretch for 15 minutes.

I couldn't attach the pic' to anyone else's thread in the "Tech Article's" so I thought at least I'd show the pic' and have it out there.

Hope somebody finds it useful. This is a 5/32 drill bit, the next size up and the recommended max limit is 11/64.

 

[diambo4life]

The easiest and fastest way to measure that is to insert the pin back into the hydraulic adjuster. With correct tension on the belt, the pin should slide in all the way and out without resistance.

 

[RamenPride]

The easiest and fastest way to measure that is to insert the pin back into the hydraulic adjuster. With correct tension on the belt, the pin should slide in all the way and out without resistance.

that's how I do it also

 

[jonnyz]

drill bit method is a little hard to do with the engine in the car. the pin method has worked well for me, but great photos none the less

 

[LKWTSI]

drill bit method is a little hard to do with the engine in the car. the pin method has worked well for me, but great photos none the less

Thanks.

I have read so many articles on the "so called" best way to do it. I understand this method is a major PITA, while in the car, but like I said in my OP, I was including pic's to maybe aid someone or add to the library of pic's out there, showing what text can't always do.

 

[NOSLO2PT0]

5/32" is .15xx" so it's within spec. Turn the bit around so the drilling edge is in the gap. You should be able to spin the bit with just a hair of friction coming from the tensioner. If this is the case, it's perfect.

 

[LKWTSI]

5/32" is .15xx" so it's within spec. Turn the bit around so the drilling edge is in the gap. You should be able to spin the bit with just a hair of friction coming from the tensioner. If this is the case, it's perfect.

Thanks, didn't know that little fact, but, yes it spins with just the slightest drag of the bit.

 

[-red97rum-]

Nice pics.

That's exactly the way I do it, although I think I'm going to start using the "pin insert" method from now on.

 

[clockworktoy]

Putting the pin back in is the easiest method in my book, has never let me down.