Losing prime on cam chain tensioner?

[JoesSHO]

Hi all,

I noticed a sorta mild "tap/knock" coming from the front drivers' side of the SHO this morning, at idle only. I got home, and put a mech. stethoscope all over the car, and it sounds like it is coming 90% sure through the valve cover above the cam chain on the front bank.

Would the tensioner be losing prime, and is it safe to drive for a while?

Supposed to be going out for Christmas this week, and obviously, I need a car.

Oh yeah- I just checked the shims a few weeks ago, and everything was in spec.

Thanx!

'94 MTX 108,000 miles...

 

[AutoSHO]

Chances are they are in need of replacement. What is happening (most likely) is that the O-ring seals in the tensioner that hold the oil in to help supplement the spring are leaking, causing the tensioner to not do its job. Unfortunately, finding one may be tricky, as at least one of the tensioners is discontinued.

I haven't looked into it yet, but they may be rebuildable.

 

[JoesSHO]

Thanks, Chris- Is it anything more than an annoyance right now? Or should I make other arrangements for travel...

Thanx

 

[AutoSHO]

Should be fine.

The worst that is happening is the tensioner block on top is worn out and the chain is rubbing on the plate. The chain should be replaced anyways, so no worries. You aren't going to damage anything driving it.

 

[JoesSHO]

Thanks, Chris-

I'm now (after your post) carrying all of my Christmas cheer out to the trunk of the SHO, and setting off on my 300 mile journey north...

Have a great Christmas, everyone. Nothing personal, but hopefully I won't have reason to talk to any of you until next week!

Thanx again,
JD