1999 3RZ 2.7L Chain tensioner stuck

[SDsurfx]

Removing the cylinder head to get reworked. Can’t get the timing chain tensioner off! Nuts came off fine, used a screw driver to crack the gasket, and it doesn’t want to budge, like it binding on the studs. Pounded back in with mallet, still only wants to home half way off.

Any ideas?

 

[Kanoe]

Not a lot of 3rzs here. Not a lot who have had to dig into them either. Sorry, I can't help.

How did the valve check go? Were they far out of spec?

 

[audiness]

are you following any sort of FSM procedure?

 

[SDsurfx]

Yep, using the FSM. Never even checked the valves, just getting the head rebuilt. The intake manifold was so full of oily soot I have no idea how it was even running.