Timing Chain Tensioner to change or not to change, that is the question. Thinking ahead to when I change the timing belt (third belt by then), wondering should I also change the Timing Chain Tensioner. It's not a service part as such but the runners are plastic and it should be easy to get to and replace since it's only held in by two bolts.

It's not a 5 minute job to replace the timing chain tensioner, even though it looks like an easy job.

The tensioner itself is only secured by 2 bolts. However as its under the timing chain so the cams need lifting out of the bearings for the tensioner to be removed. Lifting the cams means the head upper bearing ladder needs removing. It's several hours work, and while you've got it apart, you might as well replace the timing chain itself, and why stop there, you might as well replace any worn rockers or hydraulic lifters while you can get at them.

When I had the head off mine, the tensioner wasn't worn so wasn't replaced, although I did replace some rockers which were past their best. Hyundai Ioniq 5 Ultimate. The family car.
2009 Rimini Red SE TD4. Gone.
2006 Tonga Green i6 HSE. Gone.
Audi A5 convertible, my daily driver.
1972 Hillman Avenger GT, the project.

Working from memory when I did the last belt change at the time it looked an easy job. nothing unexpected to hear it isn't, everything on this car requires a fight.

The timing chain tensioner hasn't been designed with servicing in mined. Under normal circumstances, it'll last the life of the engine. Like I said, mine showed zero wear at 119k miles so I put it back in.
Incidentally the big end bearings measured zero wear too, so the engine mechanically should have a very long life, providing it's maintained to a high standard.

This is how far you need to strip the engine in order to replace the tensioner.

Click image to enlarge

Thanks for that, I won't bother then. I did wonder why the tensioner doesn't come up in forum posts now I know