Lemmee try to make some sense here...the 2 reasons not to use a tensioner are:

-for 30 yrs they did not use one

-some one had trouble because one was improperly installed


The tensioner works, I torture tested a few running many laps on the road course, No failures, no issues. I have a log book, but you can't see it. It's a lot of laps which could translate to thousands of 1/4 mile passes. Hows that for data?

Some history
the tensioner was designed for the V6 to hold the timing steady at idle and thru the rpm range.
the roundy rounders discovered it and began running it in their engines with great success.

You can't just throw one on the engine with any chain and expect it to work. As in any engine build the parts need to be fitted together for proper fit.

I had two of these tensioners break on my 408. They break the spring right where it fixes onto the mounting pad. i only know they were broke when I found a strange piece of metal when i changed my oil. First one broke and rubbed agaisnt my stock timing cover, i thought it was a fluke or defect and bought another one. Well it broke in the same spot and rubbed against my nice billet cover. i also replaced the timing set at the same time in case it was the issue, it wasn't. I also checked the clearances and installation to make sure it wasn't something I did. I have since been running with out the tensioner and instead got the roller bearing conversion from comp that replaces the thrust plate with a torrington bearing for less drag.Both tensioners were brand new from mopar performance. first time was a comp hydraulic roller cam, second time was a billet solid roller lunati cam with JP billet timing sets both cases.


DEPUTY

I don't run a tensioner in my 414. Thats one less part I have to worry about failing.

Also, most already know this, but soak your new chain in fresh motor oil for a few hours before installing so its not run dry on first start up. Right before I bolt the oil pan on I like to squirt some fresh motor oil on the chain to make sure its nice and wet.

Well I have decided against the tensioner.

I have a friend who offered me a brand new comp cams timing set in the box for a really good price, and he is local, so that makes it easier since no one around here carries the tensioner (although Todd aka Competition Wedge was going to take care of me real nice)

After looking at pictures of those tensioners over and over, especially the ones of the wear, it got me thinking that even once it wears properly, where does all the "worn off stuff" go? I think im just going to stick with a good chain for now, and maybe do a gear drive on the next motor if it really bugs me

Thanks for all the input everyone!

A little late to comment since you have made up your mind, ived used them on almost everyting with a added oil provision and esp on my 410, ive had it apart 3 times and have seen no need to replace it.

The tenisoner uses 3 bolts, I drill the tensioner for what would be the 4th in the block as it goes into the crankcase, oil comes from there, runs down the front channel of the tensioner and right on the chain in the contact are of the chain/surface.

At over 7500 often I show little wear, mainly I use them because of align bored blocks, it takes up any slack vs hunting down a diff chain set.

Ive seen many nice builds snap crackle and pop on decel. ive notived ones with the tenisoner stay more stable.