andy-gts

Does anyone know...can I use the kempf tool to check t- belt tension on my 1993 gts or do I need the $400 plus shop tool noted in the wsm.Thank you for any advice
Andy

ROG100

Kemph tool is fine

borland

Kemph tool is just a copy of the WSM recommended 9131 tool. It's probably more accurate in repeatability than the more expensive 9201 tool.

Problem is some don't read the included instructions, or follow the procedure in the WSM for orientation of the cams and rotation following incremental adjustment:

Tighten adjuster,
turn engine two turns clockwise,
Check,
repeat as necessary.

Tighten, Check just doesn't work right.

ROG100

I have a number of the Kemph tools and agree with Borland that they are more accurate than the factory 9201 tool that I also have.
Where I do not agree with Borland is the procedure "Tighten, Check just doesn't work right" for a simple tension check.
I have done a lot of TB replacements and retentions and in every case until recently followed the factory procedure and in every case have found no difference whatsoever between the first reading and the last.
I now follow the procedure for a new TB simply because the belt has not been turned and positioned/tensioned equally around the rollers & gears and rotating the engine does this.
On a retention check and minor adjustment I do not believe it is required based on experience.
If you have to make a major change at the retention check you need to find out why before proceeding any further.
Each to there own.

borland

The timing belt is slightly elastic. Turning the engine over after the adjustment, and before the check, permits the belt tension to equalize over the entire length of the belt.

Scott M.

I doubt that it is more accurate as Jay used my 9201 for testing of his tool. So you can say that it is on par with MY 9201 tool at best. Repeatability is in the eye of the user...