I am in the process of changing my timing belt and water pump. I have both of those parts (OEM), but am wondering if I should change the tensioner. I do not have it torn down to that point yet and I don't know if the tensioner has ever been changed (the car is a '95 with 195K miles). I would like to know what others think about changing the tensioner (if it is a necessity). If that's a yes, what are your opinions on it being an OEM verus an Autozone part (SA Gear or Beck Arnley - the BA I can get in one day, OEM or SAG I would have to wait at least a week on). I am hoping to get away with not changing out the tensioner, but again I'd like to hear what you all think. Thanks for the help so far!

Andy

 

My recommendation is always to change the water pump and tensioner when doing a timing belt job. Go OEM as it's a relatively inexpensive part.