Timing chain tensioners wear

[Michael Jacobs]

My 2001 Sportrac has 164k miles. I've changed the oil every 4k miles with quality oil and filter since purchasing the vehicle 13 years ago with 30k miles. I've read that the cam chain tensioners tend to fail after 150k miles, and the replacement service is expensive. I love the vehicle, and installed a rebuilt tranny recently. Any recommendations on the value of replacing the timing chain tensioners vs replacing the engine when/if they do fail? Thank you

 

[Tech By Trade]

15 hrs book time to pull the engine and replace the cassettes. Another grand for parts. Caution changing the tensioners at high mileage. They themselves can cause the plastic cassettes to shatter from increased force. Better off to let her ride till she pops.