So which timing chain tensioner kit do I need?

[Captain Amazing]

In light of the many timing chain tensioner problem threads I have decided that I will replace mine. How difficult is it to do yourself for those of you who have done it? Or should I just take it to a mechanic? How much do they charge? I do most basic stuff on my own like brakes, oil changes, etc. The most advanced thing I've done engine wise was replace the turbo inlet pipe and short ram intake on my old Mazdaspeed 6. Anyway, I'm just wondering which kit I need as there are quite a few. Here are the ones I found.

Cheapest one at $248
https://deutscheautoparts.com/tsi-ti...rvice-kit.html

These are about $450
https://www.ecstuning.com/Audi-B8_A4...Engine/Timing/

$591
https://www.europaparts.com/timing-c...0t-tsi-af.html

And this one is $675
http://store.redlinespeedworx.com/Pr..._TSI_CHAIN_KIT

Can I get away with the $248 one?

[MrTylerRaines]

Dont cheap out. I got mine at ECS and replaced the tensioner, all the guides and chains. Upper is usually the issue with stretching and the tensioner is garbage from the factory. Go with 450$.


Mr Tyler

[A4 Centaur]

From what a few folks have posted up, this could potentially grow into a nightmare without special tools etc.

I consider myself a skilled mechanic, but Ducati Valve work and this requires some patience and again special tools.

Least it looks easier than the past Audi V6 timing chain efforts. What a design!

[MrTylerRaines]

In light of the many timing chain tensioner problem threads I have decided that I will replace mine. How difficult is it to do yourself for those of you who have done it? Or should I just take it to a mechanic? How much do they charge? I do most basic stuff on my own like brakes, oil changes, etc. The most advanced thing I've done engine wise was replace the turbo inlet pipe and short ram intake on my old Mazdaspeed 6. Anyway, I'm just wondering which kit I need as there are quite a few. Here are the ones I found.

Cheapest one at $248
https://deutscheautoparts.com/tsi-ti...rvice-kit.html

These are about $450
https://www.ecstuning.com/Audi-B8_A4...Engine/Timing/

$591
https://www.europaparts.com/timing-c...0t-tsi-af.html

And this one is $675
http://store.redlinespeedworx.com/Pr..._TSI_CHAIN_KIT

Can I get away with the $248 one?

Also make sure to check your production date as well so you get the right kit.



Mr Tyler

[Audi 4 Life]

The 248 kit is only cheaper because it doesn't even come with anything. They picture all genuine audi vw stamped parts but from what I can tell you don't even get what's important, new guides and chain. Get the full kit. Do it right or do it twice.

The Europa kit looks like the best deal. BUT, I would research the non genuine parts in the kit find out who makes them. Since you sound like your trying to save money that would be the best safe option IMO. Europa always have really good prices. ECS is a rip off.

Sent from my SM-G920T using Tapatalk

[MrTylerRaines]

If you dont know how don't dig in. Find a non dealer Audi/VW shop to do it.


Mr Tyler

[Allowencer]

Check out the thread I have on this. You will need special tools and a bunch of gaskets and whatnot. In light of all of the failures (it's sad); the trend is about 1 a week right now, I will do my best to assemble a DIY.

- Deutsche's kit is just to replace the tensioner. There's no guides, no chain, bolts, etc for it. You will need all of that - again check out my thread for a ton of info.
- ECS Tuning is where I got my kit from. There are 2 different timing kits depending on year/VIN of the car. ECS will make sure they match up the correct kit for you
- Europa's kit is more 'complete'; however, a lot of it is non-OEM parts. That doesn't sit well with me - your call, your call though
- RSW's has some of the parts you need; it's all OEM though.

[Allowencer]

The 248 kit is only cheaper because it doesn't even come with anything. They picture all genuine audi vw stamped parts but from what I can tell you don't even get what's important, new guides and chain. Get the full kit. Do it right or do it twice.

The Europa kit looks like the best deal. They always have really good prices. ECS is a rip off.

Sent from my SM-G920T using Tapatalk

"Do it right or do it twice" - 110% completely agree. Couldn't be said better

I disagree that ECS is a rip off. Price out the parts yourself, apples to apples (meaning true OEM to true OEM), they are one of the best prices around.

[MrTylerRaines]

Yea i second that ECS is not a ripoff, i spent a lot of time price matching and had my oil consumption done figured hey while its out do the timing maintenance, the dealer had everything they needed and had no issues as it was all OEM.


Mr Tyler

[Audi 4 Life]

I always find parts cheaper than ecs. Genuineaudiparts.com for one beats ECS any day of the week for genuine parts. ECS has huge mark ups and GAP is nearly at cost.

Sent from my SM-G920T using Tapatalk

[Captain Amazing]

Thanks guys, yeah the amount of threads coming up is scary. I have 56000 miles/90000 km so I am thinking it is about time to do it. I'm just hoping my car doesn't explode before I get to it.

[MrTylerRaines]

Thanks guys, yeah the amount of threads coming up is scary. I have 56000 miles/90000 km so I am thinking it is about time to do it. I'm just hoping my car doesn't explode before I get to it.

You'll be fine. I didnt do mine until 93k and yea the tensioner was potentially on its way out but youve chosen a good time to do it. Good luck!


Mr Tyler