Timing chain tensioner plunger

After I reinstalled my timing chain and turned the crank several revolutions to test, I noticed that the tensioner plunger would mildly reciprocate (go in and out by maybe 1/4") depending on the position of the chain. Is this how it should be or a sign of improper installation ?

 

Tensioners put pressure on chain to keep it tight on the gears how did you remove it and keep it pushed in when you changed the chain?

 

That is how it works.

It is also operated by oil pressure. If you didn't notice, there are oil ports on the head and the tensioner.

As well as the cam gear tensioners.

 

There is a small lever plate that spins on a stud that if you turn it allows you to push the plunger all the way in and if you insert a pin (or a drill bit) in a hole, it locks it in that position so that you can remove or install the chain.

 

Sounds normal - Keep in mind without oil pressure to it you aren't seeing its true behavior

 

So will it be tighter with oil in ?

 

Yeah it makes a pretty good push force - we would neee to know design specifics but think oil rifle level of pressure in what ever surface area the plunger has

 

Like others said, it needs oil pressure to operate correctly.

Continue on.