Thread: Timing chain tensioner. Functions?

So, we have a little discussion on the Dutch Nissan forums regarding the cam-timing and the timing chain tensioner.

What influence does the tensioner have on the timing of the cams? Worn vs new chain (or stretch) also considered.

on timing? none. It does keep the chain from ratting or smacking around, and stops it from jumping a tooth. It won't move your timing at all though.

A stretched chain would a bit, but probably not any noticeable amount.

That's what I thought. Anymore feeling the same way? Or different, even? So we can conclude the discussion on the other forum?

Not sure if this is part of the information you're looking for, but without the timing chain tensioner taking up the slack on the slack-end (between the crank sprocket and the intake sprocket) you could/would have oscillating slack between the tight-end (between the exhaust sprocket and the crank sprocket) which would heavily influence cam timing.

Good point. Personally I'd call that cam lag rather than cam timing. In my mind, the two are significantly different.