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View Full Version : Timing chain slack/tension explanation, please (detailed)


jspaeth
09-29-2009, 04:27 PM
I recently took out the cams of my SR and pulled the head.

The whole time, kept the tension on the chain using a bungy cord, and I KNOW it hasn't skipped or come off.

Now, here's my question. How do you put it back on over the cam sprockets without allowing chain slack to "run down" the intake side, where the tensioner is usually applying pressure?

I plan to

1) First loop the chain over the exhaust sprocket.....chain should be quite taut on that side(?), since it runs straight down (almost) to the crank sprocket

2) Loop the chain over the intake sprocket, making sure the marks line up and all

Here's the main question.......without the chain tensioner in and applying force on the chain, how do you prevent any slack in the chain from running down and ending up at the bottom, near the crank sprocket?

Is this what happens? Or is there enough tension in the chain, even without the tensioner in (but WITH the chain running over both cam sprockets correctly) that it stays in place on the crank sprocket?

Do I need to "lift" the intake sprocket (to keep upward force on the chain on that side) while putting the tensioner back in?

Hmmm.....I wish I could see an actual picture with the front engine cover off....

datsunnazi
09-29-2009, 04:57 PM
Use a triangle shaped wedge and force that in between the chain tensioner and the front cover. That way you can keep the chain loose and make sure that the chain does not move teeth.