Timing chain tension

[Cheesy]

I've just started removing items to get at the heads for removal :shock:

Under how much tension should the timing chains be when the engine isn't running?

I ask because I can "flick" mine and there is quite a bit of movement, more than I expected.

Do they tension fully only under hydraulic action?

Thanks.

[Tdm]

imported post

Might be advisable to take the timing chain cover off and check the tensioners. They could have expanded to their maximum position and not be able to take up any more slack. If that's the case the chains may have stretched and may need replacing.
Terry

[NickA]

imported post

If you look down the oil filter cap with a torch you'll beable to see the outertensioner and judge how far it's expanded.

[Cheesy]

imported post

Thanks to you both for the advice.

The "slack" I can detect in the chains is after removing the cam covers, where the chains meet/leave the cam sprocket.

However, I'd be rather disappointed to find a problem, since the chains were changed less than 3000 miles ago!

I may as well take the timing cover off to have a proper look.

[NickA]

imported post

You will get a bit of slack as the tensioner will easebackas there's nooil pressure to push it out. Whether it’s a problem depends on how much slack you've got, when the chains were last done and how far out the tensioners are currently extended.


<edit>

Just re-read your first post. If you're taking the head's off anyway you'll have half the engine apart so no big deal to remove the timing cover at the same time.