AZS2KDancer

I'll be changing out my TCT soon and one of the tools listed for this job is a right-angled needle-nose pliers.
As I'll need to buy this tool, I noticed that both a 6-inch and 11-inch 90-degree bent needle nose are available at reasonable prices.

Which one will I need for this job if I only get one at this time?

Thanks for your advise.

Slowcrash_101

You need it to pull the pin from the tensioner through the service port in the side of the engine. The tensioner comes from the factory at the correct tension preload, so you won't get the tct noise you get when you install it with a bolt through the oiling hole method. The benefit of doing the "bttoh" method is that you don't need to open the access port, nor have to worry abut dropping the TCT piston cotter pin in the engine.

In either case it's good to prelube the whole assembly, as the TCT maintains tension through oil pressure, the TCT has little passages that serve as grease fittings and it's good practice to check that they're free from obstructions before installation.

sillyboybmxer

i dont think u need the 90 degree bend pliers, since the air box is removed you can access the hole with a regular needle nose with no issues . I think I use the itty bitty pliers i had to get in there.

AZS2KDancer

Oh, is removal of the air box necessary to access the TCT? I guess that I haven't looked at my engine with the air box removed yet.

sillyboybmxer

makes it much much much easier. I did my oem replacement with the box removed. When i replaced with a Ballade, I didnt remove it since there was no pin to pull out. Also since I knew what i was doing the second time around I felt I could get by without removing the airbox but looking back, I should have just taken it out

Billman250

Air box removal will make the job much easier for the ametuer wrencher, but is not necessary.

The right angle needle nose will allow you to pull the pin without airbox removal.

The long ones (11") will be best.

Car Analogy

I would strongly suggest that you remove the airbox the first time you do this repair. Its not that difficult or time consumming to get the airbox out of your way, whereas the aftermath of dropping the TCT pin inside the engine is.

AZS2KDancer

Thanks for your replies. I value the experience of you who have done this before and know the car so well. Yes, this is my first TCT change. I'm going to do it before I have any ticking noise, to help prevent any premature chain or guide wear.

I shopped locally for some 90 degree bent needle nose pliers, but could not find them at my local Ace Hardware store or Home Depot. I ended up ordering them online. I will take out the air box, since this is my first TCT project. Maybe I won't need the bent pliers after all.

Car Analogy

Harbor Freight sells a nice large pair of 90 degree needle nose pliers.