So I hear the timing chain rattle is because of a bad timing chain tensioner. The primary one. When I click "timing chain tensioner" in All Data, it gives me the options of "left" and "right" side.

To replace the right side it says:
1. Remove the wheel and tire.
2. Remove the lower splash shield.

3. Remove the RH camshaft tensioner.

4. To install, reverse the removal procedure.

To replace the left side it says:
1. Remove the upper intake manifold.
2. Remove the thermostat housing.
3. Remove the LH camshaft tensioner.

4. To install, reverse the removal procedure.

and to do both it says only 1.7 hours.

I want to know why I can't just replace these tensioners and be done with the timing chain rattle.

 

sometimes the chain will stretch beyond the tensioners travel or the nylon guide will wear beyond the tensioners travel or both.

 

lets assume the chain has not stretched and i'm just after replacing the tensioner solely by itself. everyone else says the engine must be removed, but i am trying to find an easier way.

 

to do tensioners the engine doesnt have to be removed

i do the recall ones on the early sohc in about 30 mins

 

and shouldnt this fix the rattle noise?

 

if the chains are not stretched, or the guides are not bad then yes, so you have about a 50% chance of it fixing the problem. if it doesnt, you were gonna replace em anyway when you do the chains so it isnt a loss

 

i looked up all data to relace timing cover seal (leaking oil ) and it says remove engine due to oil pan i seem to think there has to be an easier way like jacking up the motor ,,,, if you end up doing your chain could you let me know if its somewhat an easy task thanks