So I got started on the valve cover refresh today, getting both covers off. tomorrow i'm going to take the chain tensioner's out to change the pads. I noticed the the the tension on bank 1-4 is good both sides of the chain - almost no movement. There is reasonable looseness on top part of bank 5-8, bottom is tight The top of 5-8 is more a guide, as the tensioner is on the bottom so should I be concerned?

 

They use oil pressure to maintain tension. So unless the internal spring is broken they should be fine. If you have them exposed, replace the pads on them.

 

Note that one tensioner is 'upside down' relative to the other. The 1-4 tensioner pushes 'up' on the chain while the 5-8 tensioner pushes 'down' on the chain.

 

Makes sense as on the 1-4 side, the chain pulls from the bottom of the intake sprocket, whereas it pulls the top on the 5-8 side.

 

ya that's what i was thinking, also might just be position where the cams are currently so might not be slack all the time. Might turn over by hand to see if it changes. i'm not thinking its a problem but wonder if others have the same and yes taking them out today to change pads.

 

Not a problem. Lots of variables: Orientation of tensioner vs time to lose oil pressure, cam position, type of cam, etc...

If you turn the engine over you’ll see changes in chain tension and tensioner position.