How to Assemble the Front of a Small Block

mopar moe said
Hi: Is the timing chain tensioner a "must install " item?? The reason I ask is that I bought a 273 Commando engine that was built by a reputable machine shop in Edmonton Alberta and there is no tensioner installed.
Thanks for listening.......Mopar Moe

It's not necessary if you have a good double roller chain, but it helps keep the slack out and make the timing more consistent as the engine wears with age...

It's a good addition...