Tensioning system and method of tensioning a belt or chain

摘要

A tensioner (20) includes a base (22) and an idler support assembly (24) slidably retained on the base (22), the idler support assembly (24) including a support element having a cam surface (64) at a first end. A spring loaded handle assembly (26) includes a tension bar (34) rotatably mounted to the base (22), and a handle (30) longitudinally adjustably mounted to the tension bar (34), an engagement element (42), and a biasing element (32) intermediate the engagement element (42) and the handle (30). The handle (26) is assembly rotatable between a first position and a second position. The engagement element (42) disengages the cam surface (64) in the first position and the engagement element (42) engages the cam surface (64) in the second position.