Resolved 2G timing belt tensioner

[2gtalonjem]

OK, I'm at the position of my build to install the timing belt tensioner. The old T B tensioner would not decompress so I thought it may be bad. I purchased another one from Miller Imports and I received it yesterday. I tried to install it and again I could not get it to decompress. Is there a trick to this, am I missing something? I need you pro's to help a Newbie out. All the help will be a great Thank you

 

[black_eclipse96]

what are you trying to compress it with?

 

[2gtalonjem]

its already compressed, I'm trying to make it de-compress. (to make sure it really works) Ill have a C-clamp to compress it when I install it.

 

[Alex7747]

Well did you pull the pin?

 

[JwpRider]

When you buy a new tensioner, it should already be 'compressed', and the granade pin installed. You install it in the compressed state. Once you bolt down the tensioner, and get everything 'timed' and the tensioner gap set properly, you then pull the pin. This lets the pin 'move out'. (out being decompressed).
So, it is a little confusing when your asking '"how do you decompress it". Are you having a specific issue, such as it does not fit, or you cannot get the proper gap?

Here is a good link with lots of pics...may be helpful...

Pictorial: Installing/Timing a timing belt (6bolt/2g)

 

[2gtalonjem]

OK after further research I have found that the tensioner is already decompressed. So all I have to do is compress it, put the pin in, and install the part. I apologize for the dumb question (hence the NEWBIE status) I will make sure I do a lot more research before I post something on here.

 

[luv2rallye]

Make sure you compress it VERY VERY SLOWLY in a vice (like 1/2 turn per 20 sec) or you will blow it's seals (and then kiss goodby your timing belt & valves).

 

[ssicb]

Make sure you compress it VERY VERY SLOWLY in a vice (like 1/2 turn per 20 sec) or you will blow it's seals (and then kiss goodby your timing belt & valves).

please expand on this?

 

[luv2rallye]

Compress the new tensioner very very slowly in order to put the grenade (retaining) pin in before installing it. Too fast and you will damage it's internal oil seals and then it won't keep proper tension on the timing belt. This can result in the timing belt breaking or coming off in which case the pistons will then smash into 4-8 valves and you will have a major head/value job to do.

 

[LambdaJoker]

OK after further research I have found that the tensioner is already decompressed.

I don't understand why a new tensioner would be sold decompressed? I thought all new tensioners are sold compressed with the grenade pin installed, as previously mentioned.

I know when I did my tbelt job earlier this week, my hydraulic tensioner was compressed with retainer holding it in place. I also printed out the timing belt vfaq and followed it to the last point and had no trouble setting the tension.

Well at first, it took me a few tries before I was able to get the pre-tension correct, but shortly after I was able to pull the pin out with no friction whatsoever. And if you bought the tensioner new, why would you bother checking to see if it really works? Of course it's going to work, it's a brand new part.

Proper research should have at least pointed you to the vfaq. I could post the link for you, but then if I do, how will you learn to research thoroughly on your own.

 

[dsmvenge]

I dont think this guy should be doin a timing belt.

 

[phunny]

I dont think this guy should be doin a timing belt.

At least he's asking and double checking unlike some others