I'm contemplating doing the T belt and water pump on a B series. However, I was wondering how many people choose to buy a new T-belt tensioner. Some places sell it as part of the timing belt kit..and some dont. I'm talking dealerships, and speed shops using OEM parts.

Usually, I just let the belt break and then buy a new motor...so this will be a monumental step.

PLEASE OFFER HELP ONLY IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCED....AND PLEASE STATE A REASON FOR YOUR RESPONSE.

 

get the kit, i work at a napa and i see alot of ppl get just the belt only to have them back later for the tensioner when it fails. and thay have to take all apart again.


so why not just do it when your in there.
it's like rebiulding a motor and reuseing the old bearings.

 

For my car since i change the belt so many times a year i leave it in. If it spins free its good, if it doesnt ill change it. What ill change more is that little spring. That wears out more then the tensioner if you dont have the sleeve on it. But at the same time i have yet to see a failed tensioner.

 

Definitely replace the tensioner when you're doing the belt and water pump. I've seen a few of them fail and cause the belt to slip and shred. For the little extra money it costs, why not replace it?