Timing Belt Tension tool
Aug 17, 2004, 05:58 AM
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Timing Belt Tension tool
Well, I am starting to look through and gather stuff I will need for a cam install. I see that we need the Timing Belt Tensioner tool. I called mitsu yesterday and they said that I didnt have a valid part number, but I know alot of you guys got them off OTC. I dont see paying 34$ for something I may never use again so I will probably do what alot of others did and buy a threaded rod and nuts, 8mm x1.25 to use along with some anti seize compound and taking it really easy on the rod to prevent breaking it off. Just wondering how many others have used a homemade one and also any pics of it?? 
Aug 17, 2004, 06:32 AM
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Okay, building this tool is not complicated at all if you can find the threaded rod and you've got the time to chase it down. When you're done building it you'll have a tool that will release the tension on the cam belt. You'll also have a tool that might bend or break while using it. If you decide to build a tool, make sure you use threaded rod that is hard enough to withstand the torque of use and won't twist off. Other's have reported bending or breaking when using common threaded rod.
On the otherhand, the factory tool is only ~$8 plus shipping and handling, prolly less than $20 altogether. It takes about 15 minutes to order it on the phone and comes preassembled, ready to use. It also won't break or bend in normal use.
If you're really bent on saving a buck or two, let me know and I can take detailed pictures of the factory tool.
On the otherhand, the factory tool is only ~$8 plus shipping and handling, prolly less than $20 altogether. It takes about 15 minutes to order it on the phone and comes preassembled, ready to use. It also won't break or bend in normal use.
If you're really bent on saving a buck or two, let me know and I can take detailed pictures of the factory tool.
Aug 17, 2004, 06:34 AM
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haha, yeah I will probably make my own, Im sure i can find one hard enough to withstand the pressure. Also, where can you find the tool for 8$. I dont think it would be here when i needed it though.
Aug 17, 2004, 06:47 AM
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Here you go.
http://www.otctools.com/newcatalog/detail.php3?id=656
http://www.otctools.com/newcatalog/detail.php3?id=656
Originally Posted by n00dle
You can get one from OTC where I believe everyone's getting them. The tool itself appears to be made by Miller Tools, as it has a stamp on it. When you call it may help to give them the direct part number they have in their database. This is directly from my receipt.
MLR-MD-998738 (Tensioner, Auto Installation) $8.29
SPX OTC - 1-800-533-5338
http://www.otctools.com/
MLR-MD-998738 (Tensioner, Auto Installation) $8.29
SPX OTC - 1-800-533-5338
http://www.otctools.com/
Last edited by propellerhead; Aug 17, 2004 at 06:52 AM.
Aug 17, 2004, 07:09 AM
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Good find...
Or find a pin that will fit the tensioner (Mitsu has them for most of their cars)... mark where the tensioner bolts are to the engine (you’ll probably be able to see the bolt marks anyway when removed)... remove the whole tensioner... put it in a vise... compress it VERY slowly until you can get the pin in that will "lock it open". Re-install the tensioner where it was originally located. When your ready to tension the belt, pull the pin following the directions in the manual.
Or find a pin that will fit the tensioner (Mitsu has them for most of their cars)... mark where the tensioner bolts are to the engine (you’ll probably be able to see the bolt marks anyway when removed)... remove the whole tensioner... put it in a vise... compress it VERY slowly until you can get the pin in that will "lock it open". Re-install the tensioner where it was originally located. When your ready to tension the belt, pull the pin following the directions in the manual.
Aug 17, 2004, 07:32 AM
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sounds too complicated to me, and isnt that the tool on OTC thats 34$? doesnt have a price. guess ill just stick to making one. Any one that has made one?
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Aug 17, 2004, 08:42 AM
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You can probably use the picture from that listing as a visual reference to build the tool.
Okay, I just called OTC. The tool is in stock for $8.55 plus ~$10 for ground shipping.
Okay, I just called OTC. The tool is in stock for $8.55 plus ~$10 for ground shipping.
Aug 17, 2004, 09:20 AM
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i think i will just make one...thanks though..you didnt have to call. 
I shouldnt be using it much anyway, so I dont see spending 20$ on something for one time.
I shouldnt be using it much anyway, so I dont see spending 20$ on something for one time.
Aug 17, 2004, 06:24 PM
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Well, I went to look for some allthread rod tonight, and well NO luck, I couldnt find any in metric sizing that I needed. I went to both lowes and home depot and no luck at either one. Hmmm, where else could I score some 8mmx1.25 all thread rod?? I also went to autozone because someone mentioned on here about renting a tool from there, and they didnt even have a slight clue what I was talking about. I did pick up some permatex ultra grey, some engine assembly lube, and antiseize to use with the threaded tension tool to keep from breaking it off.
Aug 17, 2004, 06:34 PM
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Try McMaster-Carr (http://www.mcmaster.com)
They've got the rod:
P/N: 93325A180
Metric B7 Alloy Steel Threaded Rod M8 Size, 1-Meter Length, 1.25mm Pitch
$ 8.24 Each
They've got the rod:
P/N: 93325A180
Metric B7 Alloy Steel Threaded Rod M8 Size, 1-Meter Length, 1.25mm Pitch
$ 8.24 Each
Aug 17, 2004, 06:34 PM
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Go to Ace hardware,
1. pick up a 5/16 size thread bolt .89 cents
2. buy the 8 X 1.25 die $4.50
3. slowly run the die into the threads, backing of slightly while using WD-40
WALLAH...... Home made tensioner tool.
1. pick up a 5/16 size thread bolt .89 cents
2. buy the 8 X 1.25 die $4.50
3. slowly run the die into the threads, backing of slightly while using WD-40
WALLAH...... Home made tensioner tool.
