My opinion about the right side timing chain tensioner (updated version)

[HAWAIIZR-1]

So everyone already knows that I'm "Mr. While I'm in there". Nothing wrong with my right side tensioner but figured I would buy the updated version even though I have a brand new one. I could see that the new part number comes with two piece aluminum housing so I spent the bucks and got one before dropping this fresh built 350 LT5 back in.

Maybe folks already knew this, but just in case I'll throw it out there as I'm not into keeping any info to myself once I come across it.



So I found out that the only thing I really got or really needed out of this kit is the two aluminum pieces.



From left to right: my 53K mile tensioner, my new tensioner, and the new one that came with the updated kit

The kit has the exact same tensioner and only the housing design is changed. As far as I know, you cannot get the housing separately but I did not look very hard either.



I think if a good machinist like Carter were to get a set of these pieces they could make and sell them.



Another angle of the two pieces.



Another angle.



Here it is installed.

So the BLUF for me is I feel like I wasted my money and would not if building another motor in the future. I never really noticed chain noise to begin with and I see the design how it will retain oil for start up. Did I need it, in my opinion....NO. That was alot of greenbacks for those two pieces of aluminum, but I do have the satisfaction that I have the updated housing. My opinion is to keep your money and use it elsewhere.

I screwed around so much with these tensioners trying to learn about them that when I accidently dropped mine when trying to do the photo I could reset it back in less than 30 seconds........that is spooky.

Anyway, just thought I would share this tidbit from a novice point of view.

Craig