On my TSpark (1995cc), I've noticed the timing chain has started to rattle when cold. It soon stops when warm, so I assume there's some sort of tensioner that comes ...
On my TSpark (1995cc), I've noticed the timing chain has started to rattle when cold. It soon stops when warm, so I assume there's some sort of tensioner that comes into play when the engine's warmed up. Should I be worrying about this and how would one go about fixing it?
It's possible that the tensioner needs adjusting. A fairly simple job but you need to know where the tensioner and it's adjuster is. Sorry I've no idea on the 8v but it's usually on the chain end of the engine on the head.
Since the 'timimg chain' in the Tspark is a belt, as per wrinx post it is more likely it is your belt tensioner that is rattling as the bearings go on this (- or possibly the variator?). Suggest you drive it gently to your local friendly Alfa specialist who would be Red Motori in Spetisbury and get the bloke there to listen to it!
The chain can be adjusted fairly easily. The DIY method is to loosen the tensioner bolt, put the car into 1st gear and push the car a few feet then retighten bolt (absolutely without letting the car go backwards even 1 inch when in gear). I found it easiest to do on my old TS with the car parked on a hill that was not so steep as to have the car go too fast but steep enough for the car to creep forward when i let the handbrake off.
From memory the bolt I am talking about it on drivers side of engine down below the head... can't bu much more help than this as it's year since I did it.
Just as Mike says. Don't loosen the bolt too far - about 1 1/2 turns. The bolt holds the tensioner in position, when loosened, it's spring automatically tensions the chain.
I thought you were driving a 166 for some bizarre reason. Give Red Motori a shot anyway, its a nice drive over there!
