I have a 4.0L AJ engine. Can a borescope view the tensioner to see if it is plastic or metal? I mean is there a pathway I can put a borescope in to see them?

Trying to find a way to inspect and not have to take the valve cover off.

 

... [is there a pathway I can put a borescope in to see them? ]

Great question! I forgot how small camera scopes are now. Check to see photos of a head with the valve cover removed. Maybe that will give the answer.

 

We'll see soon as I just received my smartphone Borescope! Party today - car tomorrow.

Here is a link to Amazon:

 

Without removing the Cam Cover, the only point of entry is the breather outlet (arrowed in red):



Problem is the Cam Cover has a baffle beneath this:



Even if this wasn't in the way, there's a lot to work around to get to the tensioners:



Graham

 

This is interesting. So, I guess you're right, the borescope can't quite make it all the way. At least from the oil filler cap. But, WHAT THE HECK is this? Can I assume this is some sort of baffling? And it IS baffling!

 

I believe the breather is supposed to have some metal mesh behind the baffle to condense some (most?) or the oil mist.

Perhaps the oil filler has something similar? I've never looked.

 

+1

I've always understood that's why mesh is included - supposedly to reduce the amount of vaporised oil drawn into the inlet through the breather piping.

Graham

 

you need to remove the Cam covers and you can get a good look and both primary and secondary ..
good luck,i may have a set of cm cover gaskets if you do decide to remove and look

 

I might take you up on that offer. It will be the first time working on the engine for me. I'll PM you.