How the F does the timing chain tensioner work

2009 2.7l 2tr-fe

I am unable to replace my timing chain sprocket because there isn't enough slack in the chain.

I've tried for hours and I'm pretty confident I've gotten the tensioner released all the way but I just cannot get enough slack for the sprocket to fit back in place...

What is going on? Any help is much appreciated. Thank you.

 

A lot of the tensioners use a ratcheting mechanism.
You can not just “push them in”.
I bet @Dm93 knows.

 

Looks like it is a ratcheting mechanism.
Also looks to be a “lock” that needs to be pivoted.

 

The photo makes it seem like the chain is routed incorrectly.

 

Can you put the chain on the gear, then the gear on the cam?
That would be easier?

 

Your supposed to install the chain first and then the guide and tensioner and unlock the tensioner after all the timing components are in place.

 

You beat me to it, as usual

 

Supposed too.
That means the timing cover is coming off
Hell with that………

 

I'm just following FSM info, I'm not gona say you can or can't "cheat" on a job I've never done before.

 

I understand that.
As soon as you deviate from the FSM, the nah sayers will show up and say “you’re wrong”.
Well, I’m not afraid of being wrong.

I’d be getting looking for ways to reach that lock, unlock it, and push the tensioner in.
Poke, pry, prod, pull and cuss……what ever it take not to pull the timing cover.

OP is already in there with a big pry bar. He’s half way there

 

it doesn't look possible to install the chain without removing the cover. Look at the pictures- there is a section of the cover that connects to either the block or the head, maybe for coolant?, and the chain routes under this.

Edit- Sorry, I meant a new chain. I read the OP again and he's only trying to install a new sprocket, and I guess reuse the original chain. Never mind LOL.

 

Isn't there an access plate in the cover to remove the tensioner? You have to pull it out, compress it, lock the pin, do your chain/sprocket work, re-install the tensioner and then release the lock.

But I'd consider replacing the tensioner if I'm removing it..

 

On the 4.0L there's a cover by the tensioner, not sure about the 2.7L.