I replaced the tensioner so I only have one plastic elbow. Ill be sure to look at that.

 

The tensioner has 2 plastic elbows that go into it. How do you get away with only one? You should have one per heater hose and one goes into the water pump the other goes to the intake.

Massey

 

The early 3.8's only have the lower plastic elbow, it's all one piece of aluminum.

 

The replacement I bought actually had the lower elbow molded into the assembly

 

Which dampener do you guys think is best?

 

Any Damper for the Series 2 and Series 3 engines should work. There is a design difference between the FWD and RWD dampers but GM lists the parts as interchangeable. DO NOT use the damper from the supercharged engines those are different. I dont know what is different but they have a different part number and they are not listed as interchangeable.

Massey

 

Thanks Massey. Am I going to have to drop my oil pan?

 

no....

 

What do guys recommend to clean off the old timing and water pump gaskets?

 

brake cleen works