Can anybody tell me the best way to compress the primary chain tensioner? Is it like most others and done with a vise?

 

After 177 views I will speak my thoughts...

Really...

 

Original plastic or the newer metal body????

The metal ones have a 'ratchet' mechanism and the plastic body ones use oil and check-valve.

bob gauff

 

I would never use a vise on any part in general or a critical part like a primary tensioner. Hopefully, like motorcarman mentioned - you have a metal bodied tensioner as the plastic ones are destined for failure.

I can only recommend following JTIS procedures for servicing/replacing this part and no cutting corners. Specialized tools are required.

 

All the timing components are brand new, the engine never ran I bought the car with a brand new reman engine that is out of time the previous mechanic who installed the engine couldn't figure it out so the owner just sold the car.
But I think something else is wrong I put the engine back in time according to the JTIS and now the engine turns by hand to a certain point and locks up.

 

something cannot be set right. More than likely valve to piston contact.

Pull the valve covers off and ensure the cam flats line up straight.

You also need specialized tools in order to properly set the timing. You didn't mention if you used them and vise grips is not part of the specialized tool list.

Double check all your work.. And if you didn't use all the specialized tools, obtain them quickly...

 

I do have the correct tools, the flats of the cams line up. I'm thinking that because it was out of time when I got it. Maybe the valves are bent.