I'll be replacing the timing chain in a 1997 3.9 v-6 and was wondering if a standard harmonic balancer puller will work? Also,any other special tools or anything to watch for?Just trying to get everything ahead of time.

I did mine on my '96 3.9 a few years ago; can't remember needing anything special. I own a regular balancer puller and I'm sure it worked. Don't remember needing to borrow or buy anything else for the job.

I do remember wedging a piece of wood - like a 4" length of 1x2 under the belt against the water pump pulley (?) to keep it from spinning to get the pulley off, since I was replacing the water pump at the same time.

Figured as long as I was in there @ 125k miles I might as well do 'em both as a preventative measure.

Regular damper puller works fine. I would suggest getting one of the 3 way adjustable timing chains and advance the cam 3-4 degrees while in there, they really like it. I always pull the fan bolt off while the belt is still on, use a long wrench and smack it real good with a hammer, usually one of two smacks breaks it loose then they just spin off real easy turning the fan.

How about installing the update tensioner assembly?Is it really worth it?

I throw the tensioner in the trash and install a good chain (double roller, 3 way adjustable).

I used the tensioner on my 318 build, but had a devil of a time getting the chain installed. I used the Morse silent chain. Finally I took off the black plastic piece and ran it for a few months. When I took it apart again the chain had worn enough that I could use the tensioner as intended.

They don't cost a lot, available on Rockauto and other places for around $30.00

R.

Thanks for everyone's help.I completed the job in 3 hours,went really well.
I did use the tensioner,didn't have any trouble installing the chain.I put the chain and gears at the factory setting.I comtemplated installing it 4 deg. advanced,but the truck has 193,000 miles and Dad drives pretty easy so I left the timing alone.