How To Collapse and Reset a Hydraulic Timing Belt Tensioner

In this video I'll show you how to collapse and reset a hydraulic timing belt tensioner using a c-clamp. Reseting the tensioner will be needed if it has been taken off of an engine for timing belt replacement or any repair that requires the timing belt to be removed and if you intend on reusing the tensioner. If you have a new tensioner when performing timing belt related repairs it should come pre-collapsed. Albeit, if you have to redo a repair that requires the timing belt to be removed again then the new tensioner will have to be reset.

The hydraulic timing belt tensioner may be called by different names. In the video I called it an automatic tensioner. This particular style of hydraulic timing belt tensioner, which can also be called an automatic tensioner , is used on a myriad of vehicles and the method for reseting the majority of them is the same. (Always verify that the information given in the video is applicable to your vehicle using a repair manual. As noted in the video some vehicles may require a totally different procedure.)

Note: Be sure the entire surface of the end of the tensioner opposite the plunger makes full contact with the c-clamp. Pressing on just the center or the sides of the end of the tensioner opposite the plunger may result in damage to the tensioner.

Side Note: It is my belief and the belief of many of my fellow mechanics that it is best to replace the hydraulic timing belt tensioner when ever the timing belt is replaced or when ever the tensioner is removed to service any component in the timing belt area. These tensioners can and do fail. In some cases if the tensioner where to fail it could result in engine damage.

DISCLAIMER
Barbour's Auto Help is not responsible for any damage or personal injury incurred in the process of performing any auto repairs done by you the viewer. Automotive repair is extremely dangerous. Repair your vehicle at your own risk. It is the viewers responsibility to verify all information and procedures as outlined in YOUR REPAIR MANUAL AND OWNERS MANUAL FOR YOUR VEHICLE. Owning and using a repair manual suited for your vehicle is essential for correctly and safely performing ANY repair to your vehicle. Always wear safety glasses and heed all instructions for use applicable to any piece of equipment you may use. Due to circumstances out of the control of Barbours Auto Help, Barbours Auto Help makes no guaranty that by the use of the information given in this video a quality repair will be made. Barbour'sAutoHelp makes no guaranty that the information provided is totally complete, syncronized and accurate. Verify everything using an appropriate repair manual. Follow the repair manual over this videos content. You can do it. Do it right and do it safely.

Repair your vehicle at your own risk! Barbour's auto help does not guaranty a proper repair using these techniques.