Tensioner Confusion

[Steveenduro]

Hi all.

I'm still confused about the cam belt tensioner.

The TIS and VW documentation refer to both the Pulley whell (the bit with the eccentric tension adjuster) and the Tensioner damper (The bit that supplies the tension to the pulley wheel) as the "Tensioner".

My question is, should the "Tensioner damper" also be replaced with the belt, pulley and idler.

I wonder if Ford themselves actually know!

Any help appreciated as I hope to do the job this weekend.

[tim-spam]

As far as I am aware, the only parts to be replaced are the belt, tensioner roller and relay roller - the tensioner damper is normally re-used.

[Steveenduro]

Thanks Tim

 

Just spoke to my local Ford service dept.

According to them, the "tensioner" is to be replaced every OTHER cambelt change on the Tdi PD motor.

And they weren't sure whether that meant only the tensioner pulley wheel, or the tensioner damper as well. We all know that the "tensioner" should be replaced every cambelt change.

So, with the information so far, I definately need to change the belt, tensioner pulley wheel, and idler roller.

It seems as though the tensioner damper is re-used. On inspection, I'll check operation and look for oil leaks. If ok, I'll leave it.

I can't believe there is so much mis-information about a standard service operation.

If you take the car to a garage, I guess you take pot luck!

[tim-spam]

One more avenue to try - as the car is really a VW with Ford badges, your local VW dealer would probably be of more help.

[Steveenduro]

I spoke to local VW garage. Quote "We would only replace tensioner damper if it is seized". "Tensioner pulley wheel is normally replaced". They didn't really know about the idler wheel.

I may just change the whole lot (incl damper) for piece of mind. Mind you, it is