Hi all.

Removed RH valve cover to inspect secondary tensioners and they were latest type.
Tried to check primary tensioners, but very hard to see anything. Took some pictures and closeup at my pc revealed a hairline crack in the primary blade around the pivot bolt.
How long will this last before the blade falls apart?

 

I am in the same boat as you, secondary tensioners were upgraded before I got the car. When I removed the oil pan to repair a concave dent I found a lot of plastic that appears to be from the primary tensioners. I am devising a plan to change the primary chain guides and upgrade the primary tensioners only. My primary chains have minimal wear and am not going to touch them. If it works the way I plan, I will not even have to drain the coolant or use the timing retention tools. I bought the parts separately for less than $200. I will post pics and procedure later.

 

LOL
That just a stress crack from age. Ive seen that on low mileage engines as well.

You can spray brake cleaner on it, air blow it dry,then a few drops of super glue LIQUID, will fuse the plastic.

Ive done hundred of guides, on other cars and jaguars, all the same. Replace them when you have time to tear the engine down, or you start hearing a little tapping.

The tensioners at top is what to worry about, because they are the ones that will screw your world over