Question About Hydraulic Tensioner MKIII

1975 MKIII

I just took apart the primary chain hydraulic tensioner on my MKIII to clean it out. I noticed that inside the plunger (part # 28 Group 10) there is a spring and a nylon spacer. The spacer has two diameters, a thicker short section which fits snugly in the plunger bore , and a thinner long section which can fit inside the spring coils. When I disassembled it the thinner diameter was facing away from the spring. I am not sure if this is correct.The parts book and factory manual do not clearly show which way this spacer goes in. Anyone happen to know which way is correct?

I also have a question about the chain case steady bolt assembly (part #'s 23 and 25 Group 10). Does the lock nut (#25) go up against the frame or the back of the inside primary cover. When I disassembled it the nut was up against the case. This nut would periodically come loose and cause a slight oil leak. What would be the correct assembly order for these pieces. I am seriously thinking about bolting up the primary, adjusting the nut to get the correct spacing, measure, install a spacer thus eliminating the nut all together. That way I don't have to worry about #25 coming loose and nut #26 will hold everything tight. Any and all help will be appreciated.

Pete

Deets55 said:

When I disassembled it the thinner diameter was facing away from the spring. I am not sure if this is correct

Click to expand...

Yes, that is correct.: mk3-chain-tensioner-sprag-oil-t18663.html

Deets55 said:

I also have a question about the chain case steady bolt assembly (part #'s 23 and 25 Group 10). Does the lock nut (#25) go up against the frame or the back of the inside primary cover. When I disassembled it the nut was up against the case.

Click to expand...

Yes, that is how the factory eventually assembled it (see MkIII manual Section C, Fig.C45 inset) even though it doesn't match the parts book drawing.

Thanks Les, appreciate the help.
Pete