Timing Belt Tensioner Replacement Needed?

[Tango]

I've heard and read from many sources that I need to replace the timing belt as a precaution on my new 81 Spider. However, some threads seem to talk about also replacing the tensioner at the same time. Is that normal? If the tensioner pully turns quietly and smoothly, is there any reason to change it, or is it just one of those, while-you-are-in-there-change-this-cheap-part-too things?

Thx.
Tim

[narfire]

They are not difficult to remove. I had one that turned great but when I looked at the backside,it seemed the bearing seal had shrunk or something and the bearings were open to the dirt and oil that could be found flinging about.I replaced that one. The others were sealed so I left them alone.

[So Cal Mark]

if the bearing feels perfect, then no need to change it. But rarely do they feel perfect. I advise to replace the front oil seals too while the belt is off since leaks there are so common and more than likely they will start to leak before the next scheduled belt replacement.