M42/M44 timing chain tensioner replacement

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jmc330i
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Wed Aug 19, 2015 2:02 pm

I will be changing the chain tensioner on my M44 engine tomorrow and Ive seen some people recommend to fit the tensioner compressed and then rev the engine to 3500rpm to release the tensioner and others say its best to carefully decompress the tensioner by hand and then fit it.

So whats the best practice for changing the chain tensioner?

Cheers
James
'91 325i Sport
'93 318i touring 16v
jmc330i
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Wed Aug 19, 2015 8:34 pm

Evening bump :)
James
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'93 318i touring 16v
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Wed Aug 19, 2015 9:46 pm

I have done it both ways and it hasn't made any difference if it is compressed or not.

If it is compressed it is a bit easier to screw in.
jmc330i
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Wed Aug 19, 2015 10:50 pm

Cheers, that's what I thought. Providing the tensioner gets delivered I'll have a crack at it tomorrow.
From what I've read, some people are worried about revving the engine to release the tensioner.
James
'91 325i Sport
'93 318i touring 16v
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sanitroc1
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Thu Aug 20, 2015 8:02 pm

Both the ones I did I left it uncompressed , I didn't like the idea of the revving to 3k even though all the front ends were either new or as new .
What are your sprockets and chain like for wear ? .
On both of mine the guide that the tensioner pushes on showed hardly wear at all .

Steve .
jmc330i
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Thu Aug 20, 2015 8:16 pm

Thanks Steve. I've not looked at the chain and sprockets since I fitted the engine, but they were spot on so I don't expect much has changed.
I didn't get chance to do the tensioner today as it didn't turn up until late. Providing the weather holds, I'll do it tomorrow.
James
'91 325i Sport
'93 318i touring 16v
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