![honda s2000 timing chain tensioner instanoise forums honda s2000 timing chain tensioner instanoise forums](https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.s2ki.com-vbulletin/1008x756/cam_gaps_f89ca8abe954b8316cc68ce9e9be2a9f42c8cad2.jpg)
The Ballade TCT is a billet aluminum body similar to the OEM cast aluminum design. This is where we saw a need to have a stronger TCT. This is a ingenious design by Honda but does make an annoying noise once the piston has reached a certain point of extension. As the piston pushes forward on the timing chain guide it cannot retract, go backwards, due to the internally threaded worm gear. The springs push the piston forward and the threaded worm gear inside the piston keep it one directional. The TCT has an internal piston which is spring loaded and oil pressure driven. As the timing chain stretches and the plastic guides wear down, the TCT has to keep tension on the chain and guides to secure the engine from skipping timing. The noise that the OEM TCT produces is the result of the internals rattling due to the lack of spring tension. This leads up to the reason for Hondas timing chain tensioners failure.
![honda s2000 timing chain tensioner instanoise forums honda s2000 timing chain tensioner instanoise forums](http://www.razid.com/images/tensioner_rebuild/tensioner.jpg)
Over time and use, the timing chain will stretch from its original length reducing timing synchronization of the camshaft and crankshaft. The timing chain is not meant to last forever, just like any timing chain it must be serviced/replaced due to chain stretch. It is well known the F20c/F22c timing chains are so durable it has become a forgotten maintenance to ever replace the timing chain and its plastic timing guides. Upon inspection of the timing chain they found all the links to be fully in tact. The highest mileage S2000 Ballade Sports has encountered had about 340,000 original miles. Hardly do you ever see this timing chain break from natural wear and tear. The type of chain, made by Borg Warner, is called a silent chain. The S2000 uses a singular gear called the Idler Gear to sync the camshafts and crankshaft timing via timing chain. The timing chain tensioner is also referred to as the cam chain auto-tensioner. Replacing the timing chain tensioner in my Honda S2000.