Well finally came down to that diesel sound near the back passenger side of the motor, me and my mechanic concluded its the tensioner so I'm going to buy parts soon but I need to know if it's necessary to get a new chain or not?? How many people have had to replace the chain as well? Was it hard to do with the chain at all? I don't want my mechanic thinking he can charge me up the ass I know the tensioner isn't bad at all, please reply soon this has to get done ASAP! Also the Timing chain tensioner bolt do I need that as well?

 

Tensioner is an easy 10 minute job, timing chain is a wee, wee bit longer. What is a Timing chain tensioner bolt? the entire unit is threaded and acts as its own bolt.

 

Ok thanks and it's part number 11588522 at crate engine depot

 

No you don't need those, they are for the chain guides. Just this: Ecotec Timing Chain Tensioner 12608580

 

Alright man.. But do you think I need a new chain? Anyone? How hard is it to change out

 

u may well need new chain, guides and guide rail bolts. All this stuff comes in a kit along with new gears for under 200 dollars and includes a new style tensioner. Crate engine depot.com

Its REALLY important to change the little 6 x 1 mm guide bolts they can break. May even be broken already if your car is making a lot of noise. This is an ecotec maintenence item and while the new style tensioner is a real good fix, if you been buzzing the heck out of your motor, guides and bolts are essential. and while you are at it, a new chain which comes in the kit.

Its a simple job but long.

 

Pull your valve cover and have a look at the guides/chain, 5 minute job. Cheap and easy route is to try the tensioner first, plan b is what Powell suggested.

Depending on your $$$ situation it may be advisable to jump straight to plan b. A mechanic will likely bill 5-6 hours or more, I could do it in 4 but I've been tearing into my balt the last 3 months and it is old hat now, retiming took 2 hours the first time and 15 minutes the last time.

 

Just changed the tensioner today the guides/chain are good! But turns out the damn ticking noise is that water pump! Not to mention I have an exhaust leak so more work to do.