[Shotimes] Failing Cam Timing chain tensioner sound?

[bjshov8]

The V6 has a belt in the front of the engine.  Also its belt tensioner is a
fixed item, i.e. it is locked into position after adjustment and doesn't
move.  If you are detecting sounds from the front of the engine, then you
might have a problem with a loose lower timing gear.  Some of us have called
this "crank cancer".  It is caused by the harmonic balancer not being
tightened properly, and with time the woodruff key in the crank wears its
slot in the lower timing gear and allows the gear to vibrate back and forth.

Here is how to check for this- loosen the top timing belt cover enough that
you can see the timing belt.  Rotate the crank slightly back and forth and
watch that the timing belt moves in perfect coordination with the crank.  If
there is any hesitation where the crank moves but the belt doesn't, then you
will know that the lower gear is worn.  You will need to replace the lower
gear and key.

> I believe my 91 winter SHO (140K +) is making
worn-front-cam-chain-tensioner
> noise.  I have traced the sound to that area using a mechanic's
stethoscope.
> I describe is as a ticking sound, and it occurs in a specific RPM range,
> maybe 2300-ish to 3300-ish.  Mallinson says changing the tensioner didn't
> fix it for him.  Maybe it's slop in the chain itself?
>
> VO
>
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> Can anyone describe the sound a failing tensioner would make? I have this
> wierd rattling sound that is only present from 3000rpm and up, but it only
> happens some times.
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