Change the timing chain tensioner through the inspection port?

[Soulprogression108]

Hi guys I'm still figuring out if this is my issue but I figured I'd post the question because it's starting to look more and more like it.

So I've had a little noise from my engine around 1500 rpm it's most noticeable. I also found some small flakes of metal when I changed the oil last. I tracked the sound down to around the port where the timing chain tensioner is. I am ordering the gasket so I can pull that cover and check the tensioner out through the window and replace the gasket when I do that. That being said I've seen that occasionally the plastic end cap on these tensioners can come off and fall in the engine. Leaving the metal rod end of the tensioner exposed and rubbing. If that's the case I'm wondering has anyone replaced the tensioner through the cover without pulling the whole timing chain cover off?

I've seen a video where the guy had the tensioner out (2007 4.0 v6) which I know is basically the same engine with a few changes in the vvti system.

I'm really hoping it's that simple and there hasn't been any major wear. But will find out more when I pop that cover.

 

[djeepin]

high humidity in Hawaii.

 

[Jeremy556]

No, you can't change the tensioner without pulling the front cover.

If you had metal flakes in your oil, and you're sure they came from the engine, you should drop the lower oil pan and pull the oil filter and inspect. Determine if they are aluminum or ferrous, and inspect the oil pickup for debris.

Toyota's timing components are nearly infallible, but you can always be that 1in/1million