Just wondering if any of you replaced your timing belt tensioner with the timing belt when you did the job. It's like 100+ dollars, and if needed to be done, then I figured I'd order it since they don't have it in stock. Please chime in. Thanks.

 

Yes. When doing your 60k service you should do your timing belt, serpentine belt and tensioners.

 

My buddy and I just used a big pair of pliers to grab the cam gear and it worked fine.

 

I asked the mechanic the same question and he said it was not necessary until you hit 90k plus miles when you would change the water pump, tensioner and timing belt etc again. They don't have it in stock because it is NOT part of the Mitsubishi Maintence Schedule. It was the same at my dealership. I have known the mechanic since I have owned the car (2003). Many people feel the need to replace for extra "insurance" which is fine but if you think about it Mitsubishi would make an easy $100 if they simply added it to the 60k Required maintence schedule, but they dont even stock it.

 

Interesting Q. The old DSM's were prone to engine destruction if you didn't change the tensioner when doing the t-belt. I know my father lost a motor in his old GSX when they didn't replace it.

 

like Always Relplace the Timingbelt tensioner. Because the 4g63 is an interference motor and you will bend valves if you jump teeth.

 

Just think of all the heat and stress you put on thoses parts. I think my evo's heart is worth the extra 100 bucks.
I replaced the timing belt, tentioner, and water pump at 39k just to be safe.

 

The factory maintenance schedule may not require it, but the tensioner and the belt are a combination. If either one prematurely fails, you have a very expensive repair. I simply replace the tensioner at each timing belt change for peace of mind. Your peace of mind may or may not require it.