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Old 11-04-2012, 01:26 PM   #287
2012ZL1
CaRaHoLiC
 
Drives: '12 ZL1,67 Cam,68 Biscayne 427 4 sp
Join Date: Aug 2011
Location: B.C. Canada
Posts: 1,701
I figured out why people have broken the tensioners. After watching some video and seeing pictures of how people retract the tensioner to install the cam gear, It becomes painfully obvious the problem does not lie with the "part" but with the installer.
These tensioners are not meant to be "retracted". They are a one time deal. Once the pin is removed that holds the tensioner back, its done.
Retracting the plastic tensioner by prying or clamping causes cracks which while not evident at the time, self destruct shortly thereafter.

The chain tensioner is the newest design because it works better at controlling chain tension at high rpms. Either install a NEW one, or do not retract it and it will be fine. I re-used mine and did not retract it and had no problem popping my new 3 bolt cam gear on by hand with no help from prybars,pliers or any tools. I guarantee There will be no issues with it.

The one thing that is correct about the dampner as opposed to the tensioner is that it is idiot proof.
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