Nissan USA
Replacement:
SR20DE Timing Chain Tensioner


Photos!

Beginning around around 70K miles, my engine began emitting strange noises: excessive clatter at startup, jingling at idle, and a "mad cricket" sound under high load WOT. This obviously caused some concern.

I studied TSB# NTB92-056 for the 1991-92 SR20DE that mentioned "a rattle in the timing chain area for short period when the engine is started after a one night soak or at low RPM caused by a leak-down of oil in the chain tensioner." The "countermeasure" part is a re-designed chain tensioner superior to the original factory one. This difference is easily seen when both are viewed side by side. The oil chamber is larger, with a much larger passage to allow greater flow and pressure. A fresh O-ring is already installed. The new gasket is a stamped and crimped two-piece metal design, compared to old one composed of a single stamping with a rubber insert.

Installing the new tensioner eliminated the major problems of clatter and jingling. I still heard some kind of 'cricket' or hissing sound under high load WOT, but I suspected this noise was from another source, possibly in the intake or emission control system.

Purchase the following parts:

Chain Tensioner 13070-2J200
Gasket 13079-2J200

This procedure will require 30 minutes and can be done alone. If your next oil change is soon, I recommend you do it immediately after installing the new tensioner, saving the trouble of removing the filter again.

Tools and supplies: small ratchet; long 10mm socket; small rags; oil pan; cup or small container

View the photos before beginning!


Rick's SE-Rious Procedures

Original material is the creation of Rick Zotz, 1999, 1998, 1997, and has been contributed to SE-R.net.