Timing Belt Tensioners

[SuperHO]

Anyone know the difference between a 3.0 and 3.2 timing belt tensioner? Are they even different?

 

[projectSHO89]

They are different and are not interchangeable.

The ATX version has a hydraulic tensioner.

Steve
89

 

[sdpatt]

Here a some photos to show you the difference.

The gas piston tensioner of the 3.2L with drill bit to hold the compressed piston in place.

The installed timing belt on the 3.2L. The gas piston works on a pivoting lever arm that holds the tensioner pulley. The piston keeps a constant tension on the belt for its entire life.

The 3.0L has a spring loaded tensioner pulley that pivots around the bolt through the pulley. The nut is tightened during installation to lock the tensioner in place. As the belt stretches, the tension is reduced since the pulley is locked in place.

 

[SnickterP]

Would a metallic hissing type of noise from the accessory end of the engine while driving indicate a bad timing belt tensioner? the sound increases with engine rpms, and is hardly noticeable at idle. almost sounds like it wants to be a supercharger

 

[shojuan]

Could be your brand of accessory belts or if you use a belt dressing. I get a turbo like whine from my new goodyear gatorback accessory belts, similar to when I use belt dressing on my other cars' belts. I love that sound! The belt dressing sound goes away as the excess flings off and the remainder cures, but the gatorback belts keep making that beautiful noise. This could be the noise you're describing. Scott Patterson has the same gatorback belts that I do and he doesn't like the turbo whine. But then again he has a much nicer exhaust than I do so the sound of whining belts might take away from the exhaust note.

Rick

 

[SnickterP]

true, perhaps. its kind of a cool noise...but what worries me, is that it wasnt there before. at least not before the last 5 months or so. maybe when the belts wear they make noise? either way, its not a big deal seeing as how i have to do a 60k soon

<small>[ September 20, 2002, 12:09 AM: Message edited by: SnickterP ]</small>

 

[smcallis]

That hissing could also be one of the accessory belt tensioner pulley bearings.

 

[SnickterP]

well, underdrive pullies would cure that, now wouldnt it? because i am most certainly doing those once i get in there