Timing chain tensioner seal replacement

[cobra]

I recall using a ratchet and a swivel, worked fine. It's definitely weird but not impossible.

On the toughest to reach bolts, I usually go for a breaker bar because it can bend a little past 90 degrees and has a shorter stack height than a ratchet.

[tcp]

With limited space why use a deep socket?

It's the only 32mm socket I have and it worked. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[sapote]

I just went out to check. No, Crescent wrench wont fit in the tight space.
I used 1/2" socket and a swivel ratchet wrench. A fix 90* wrench might not work.

https://www.lowes.com/pd/CRAFTSMAN-7...E&gclsrc=aw.ds

[sapote]

.
I’ve read over the Bessian guide that shows them removing the tensioner several time. How the hell do they get a 1/2 drive ratchet in there?!
!

Can you use a large Crescent Wrench instead? It is a crushed washer for sealing.

[sapote]

Funny, I just changed my timing chain tensioner today.

I used a 32mm Husky deep socket

With limited space why use a deep socket?
I used the normal socket and a normal ratchet wrench with no problem of clearance.

[tcp]

Funny, I just changed my timing chain tensioner today.

I used a 32mm Husky deep socket I picked up from Home Depot and a "Square Drive Socket Cap" I picked up from Harbor Freight.

It's tight, but you can fit a wrench on the socket cap and get the tensioner in or out. Just note that you really can only use this for breaking the tensioner loose and tightening it. Once the tensioner is loose, you'll need to pull the socket off since there isn't enough room to back the tensioner all the way out with a wrench on the socket.



P.S. The socket cap + deep well socket approach is mentioned in the S54 VANOS thread here: https://nam3forum.com/forums/forum/m...os-info-thread

[g00b86]

Hello all,

In the process of fixing an oil leak that appears to have originated from my timing chain tensioner seal. I purchased a new tensioner and seal, as well as the only 32 mm socket I could find that clears the end of the tensioner and has enough depth to reach the hex. I tried 2 different shallow and thin walled sockets prior to this and neither could clear the end of the tensioner and reach the hex.

I’ve read over the Bessian guide that shows them removing the tensioner several time. How the hell do they get a 1/2 drive ratchet in there?! I’ve been fighting mine with thin head, angle head, 3/8 with adapters… nothing clears the AC line in any way. There isn’t enough room for an extension or a strap wrench either.

I’ve searched every s54 forum - tons of m54 content which is a piece of cake compared to this job that at first glance shouldn’t take more than 30 min. I’ve got about 2 hours of cleaning and cursing at this damn thing and still no success. Many people reference the seal replacement but no actual DIY exists that I could find..

Any insight is greatly appreciated guys!