摘要 |
In a chain tensioner, an expansible ring is disposed in an internal groove formed in the inner wall of a plunger-accommodating hole near an open end thereof. The ring cooperates with grooves formed on the plunger to exert a ratchet action. The relationship between the angles of the surfaces of the internal groove and the grooves on the plunger allows the plunger to protrude, restricts retraction of the plunger on start-up of a chain transmission, but allows retraction when chain tension becomes excessive. In one embodiment, in which the ring is a C-ring, the tensioner housing can be formed with external threads for mounting in a threaded hole on a timing chain cover or other engine part. In other embodiments, the ring can have externally protruding levers for manipulation of the ring. |