Timing chain set

I have one of those tensioners sitting on the bench, soon to be used. Prior to insertion, I will use a saw to lighten it by cutting off all of the tensioner-related parts. No way am I gonna run a steel chain against a $3 plastic piece and expect it to not wear. I should also add that I believe (?) those tensioners were developed by Chrysler for use with a link type chain, not a roller. That answers your question of "if they're so bad why do they last so long in stock engines?"