SB Cam Thrust Plate P5249637 no longer made? Only tensioner now?

"In my AMC days, occasionally we would get in a noisy straight six, sounded like a small knock in front of the engine behind the timing cover. The cam would walk back and forth at idle, the factory fix, was a spring and a plastic button, the spring rode in front of the cam and the button, push against the cam cover...it worked well.''

Chevy always did that. I think Mr Gasket had a tensioner button available.


"Are not the lobes of the cam ground with a slight taper, to help rotate the lifters. This alone is enough to push the cam forward against the thrust plate. If the thrust plate is “step” worn..it does need to be replaced."

Yes they are.

"I did install the tension-er with my new chain and sprockets a few years back, both the tension-er and thrust bearing where the same thickness. This coming winter when the motor gets a major over haul I will not be reinstalling the tension-er but will be gong with a better quality set or gears....."


Good plan. How many miles on the tensioner? It would be interesting to note the wear. Snap a few pics.