i found an 03 with 35k on it for 18 that needs a timing chain tensioner..anyone have a clue as to how much a shop would charge to fix it?

link to ad: http://atlanta.craigslist.org/ctd/1076670173.html

 

you could prolly do it urself if your pretty mechanicallly inclined...i would search for a new tensioner though just to gets a rough estimate of just parts

 

They would charge you quite a bit, but you could very easily do it yourself.

 

well the part looks cheap, but i've never changed a timing belt/tensioner before. I've had the front of my 289 all apart but i didn't do anything to the chain. what's involved on a 4v?

 

Just take off the cover and pull off the 2 bolts that hold the tensioner.Make sure to take advantage of the plunger stop with the pinhole. I can send you pics of what to do if you get confused, as they are somewhat confusing at first.

 

what all has to come off before the cover comes off? pictures would be awesome!

 

All you need to do is loosen the valve covers and take the front bolts off that connect to the timing chain cover, then you will have to take out the (guessing) 12-15 bolts that hold the timing chain cover on. Then you will have full access to the timing chains but you will need to be careful with he tensioner because when you let the tensioner loose the cams on that side will turn if they are not restricted. This could be very bad if you do not take precautions to keep it from turning. I used vice-grips when I changed mine and it kept it from turning fine. The process isn't hard if you have a basic set of hand tools 10, 13, 15, and 18mm from what I can remember, which would be different on the 03s. I would definately be checking that car out to make sure that's all thats needed. If there's something wrong with the tensioner, what else could be wrong with it? Good luck either way and let us know if you need anymore help.

 

well idk if 1svt did it on an 01 and above before but are model you have to loosen the engine and raise it a few inches because the drivers side cover wont make it out without raising the engine...i have a tech artivle on doing cams but it will tell you all the precautions you need to take to get to the point of puttin a new tenioner in...let me look around my computer for it alittle then ill send it to you...

 

sounds good guys, thanks a lot

 

Not a problem. Good luck with it. Looks like a really nice car!