so over this past weekend i recently got a cel in my 03 rsx-s. I pulled the code and camshaft position sensor came up. After some diagnosing the culprit of this code, I came the the conclusion of it being a timing chain tensioner. on statup up there is a knocking sound for about 3 seconds then goes away.

my question is for you guys do you recomend just replacing the chain tensioner, or replacing the chain as well. or anything thing else needed to perform this fix properly. I will also be replacing the water pump as well. any help appreciated. the car has about 127k and it runs good. This is the first problem I had since owning the car for about 2 years.

 

I have an 03 rsx w/ 90k. Last year I noticed a knocking/ticking - took into Acura dealer, told me all was running fine/well. Just took in for reg oil change, transmission fluid changed, etc. Service tech told me to get valve adjustment for knocking/ticking sound he heard. Took it in - found this:



lobe on right - Only 1 like that. Reg maintenance, oil changes, etc. After doing a little research I see a trend w/ the early K-series and a lot of other owners with same pictures - rumor seems to be problem w/ heat treating process during manufacturing on camshaft. Though, I can't validate that, most goes unnoticed since valve adjustment typically isnt until 110k miles. Workin on mine right now.

 

^^ The cam galling isn't a problem on the Type-S motors since they have real Vtak bumpsticks.

jerks.

 

bwuhahaha.

 

Hi,

I do timing chains on the tsx and rsx and always replace the guides (3)/chain/tensioner. That's all you'll need. Please remember to clean the block and cover thoroughly before applying Hondabond to seal. Also let the hondabond sit for a minimum 1 hour before starting up again. I've seen guys put it back together within the 1 hour and start it up and then watch the oil pour out of the engine.

 

thank you all for your input. I took the advice on replacing guides as well. I got it back together seems like it runs alot better no codes as of yet, but currently i noticed vtec is not working, as well as a low idle and somtimes motors shuts off. im going to be driving it for a little while see if any codes show up. any ideas on solutions of vtec working or the low idle problem.