Timing chain tensioner not keeping tension when rotating manually?

SKAERZ

MEMBER
1997 NISSAN HARDBODY
2.4L
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
240,000 MILES

Hello,

I am rebuilding the engine in my truck listed above. It is a 2.4L KA24E.

I just installed a new timing chain kit, but when I turn the engine over manually (breaker bar / socket), eventually the tensioner gives a little and causes some slack in the chain towards the bottom.

Is this because there isn't any oil pressure? I tried 2 different tensioners, and they do the same thing.

Thank you for any help.

5 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,643 POSTS

Correct, the timing chain tensioner must have oil pressure to keep tension on the timing chain, this is normal. Check out the images (below). Let us know if you need anything else.

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Tuesday, September 3rd, 2024 AT 3:37 PM

SKAERZ

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Hello Ken,

Thank you for the reply. So, this is normal? This has been the biggest hang-up for me getting it put back together. The reason I ask is that the last tensioner I put in, I didn't have this issue. However, that was with the engine already in the truck.

Video (Click to make bigger)

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Tuesday, September 3rd, 2024 AT 4:24 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,643 POSTS

Ya, that looks like it is a cheap tensioner, it should have a ratcheting mechanism, so it does not go inward like that. The ones I have seen have this feature.

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Wednesday, September 4th, 2024 AT 10:02 AM

SKAERZ

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Thanks for the reply, Ken. It is from a Cloyes Timing Chain Kit. However, I think this is the standard style for the truck, even OEM is like this. However, there is a self-adjusting ratcheting style that I went ahead and purchased anyways from a company called Martin Industries. Thanks for the help.

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Wednesday, September 4th, 2024 AT 10:39 AM

KEN L