HELP!!! help with idler sprocket

[Nismo240SseX]

I recently removed my head to replace the head gasket and now i cant get my idler sprocket back on. I can get it almost on but 4 spikes. What do i need to get it back on? Do i need to remove my whole front cover or no?

[motoman399]

you can stick something down in your front cover in between the two sides of the chain to release the tension on the tensioner. i use a screwdriver handle or a long extension.

when you get it back together, make sure you use a ratchet/breaker bar and rotate your crank shaft over a few times before you start it. you dont want a valve to hit the piston.

[liquid_cool]

on the crain tentioner there is a little catch lever to hold back the piston..that gives you enough room to get the idler sproket on...but be carefull not to cross thread that bolt..or over torque it..its pita to fix the threads for it...once the idler sprocket is on...just undo that latch and your all set...no need to rotate the crank at this point..you will do that when you set cam timing anyways...good luck and keep us posted..

P.S. depending on the thickness of the head gasket you have used...it may be a little more difficult to alighn the idler sprocket bolt to the hole..specially if you went extra thick to drop CR for a boosted engine..

[motoman399]

Just FYI the latch you speak of is only found (from my experiences) in the oem s13 tensioners. Not in any of the s14 ones or aftermarket ones I have seen. I thought it was the coolest thing when I first saw it. Most have a pin to hold it.

[comatoseculture]

Just did my s13 ka24de with a kit from napa that had the latch. just fyi, nothing to brag about obviously. Also, sounds like he has the lower timing cover on still, this will make it extremely hard to get to the latch. I'd suggest removing the lower cover and doing it right/easy, or trying to pry the tensioner over far enough WHILE inserting idler sprocket bolt WHILE shaking/spinning it to avoid cross threads WHILE avoilding the new HG with both the sprocket AND pry bar/tool. I'd suggested the latter second for a reason. AND tryed to include the difficulty. best of luck

[Nismo240SseX]

Thanks for the help, i will try tomorrow to get it done.

P.S. I have a 93 240sx red hatchback SE with a ka24de

[Nismo240SseX]

[comatoseculture]

Either force it over, or take off the lower cover for much improved access. Thats a tough spot, and I do feel bad, best of luck. IT IS POSSIBLE BOTH WAYS!!! YOU CAN DO IT!