Small Block Timing Chain Tensioner

[tactransman]

Anyone use one yet?

http://www.bpemopar.com/SMALL_BLOCK.htm

[GoodysGotaCuda]

Anyone use one yet?

http://www.bpemopar.com/SMALL_BLOCK.htm

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Been pondering running one on my 360 

[tactransman]

Looks too fragile.

[Chryco Psycho]

couldn`t hurt ............at least until it breaks

[Jacksboys]

I have it on my 360 in my Challenger.  Has about 3000 miles on it with no problems.  Seem like a sturdy unit when I installed it.  It is difficult to put the timing chain on when it is installed (very little slack in the chain)

Here is a picture of it installed.

[mrbill426]

I have seen these things...is there a "problem" with the small block that makes this a requirement?

 

[Jacksboys]

I have seen these things...is there a "problem" with the small block that makes this a requirement?

 

No, there is no problem and you do not have to use it.  As far as I know, the factory never used anything like this in the original motors up until the Magnum truck motors were released.  What made me decide to get one was the fact that the engine I was using only had about 3000 miles on its original rebuilt and the chain had stretched quite a bit from where it started.  I figured that it was good insurance to have in case the new chain started to stretch.  It also prevents a worn chain from slapping the cover.

[mrbill426]

I gotcha, thanks 

[duodec]

Did the Magnum small blocks come with roller timing chains or the silent link type?  If the latter, then is it really long-term safe to use one of these tensioners with a roller chain?  Thats a lot bumpier surface rubbing against the tensioner pad...

[matt63]

I've got one on my 408.  It seems fine so far but I've only got a few hundred miles on it.

[Jacksboys]

Did the Magnum small blocks come with roller timing chains or the silent link type?  If the latter, then is it really long-term safe to use one of these tensioners with a roller chain?  Thats a lot bumpier surface rubbing against the tensioner pad...

Not positive on the chain type, but if you look at the picture, there are atleast eight lobes touching the tensioner at all times; also the tensioner is slightly curved so the ends do not come in contact with the chain.  When you put those two things together, the rubbing action of the chain on the tensioner should be smooth.

[vinb]

Hey Guys, I installed that tensioner on my last engine rebuild. It was very tight, so tight that after approx. 2,000 miles I went to change my camshaft to try something a little different and it seemed to wipe out three cam bearings, I checked the camshaft and it was straight. Nice concept , but I think it was a little too tight when I installed that thing. I changed my camshaft after changing the cam bearings. I put about 2,200 miles on the engine so far this year and everything looks good.

[Jacksboys]

Hey Guys, I installed that tensioner on my last engine rebuild. It was very tight, so tight that after approx. 2,000 miles I went to change my camshaft to try something a little different and it seemed to wipe out three cam bearings, I checked the camshaft and it was straight. Nice concept , but I think it was a little too tight when I installed that thing. I changed my camshaft after changing the cam bearings. I put about 2,200 miles on the engine so far this year and everything looks good.

When you installed the new cam, was that with or without the tensioner?

[tactransman]

VERY nice looking engine vinb!
After that report, I have never used a chain tensioner , don't think I am going to start now. I think if you go with a high quality timing chain set you don't need it.

[heminut]

VERY nice looking engine vinb!
After that report, I have never used a chain tensioner , don't think I am going to start now. I think if you go with a high quality timing chain set you don't need it.