The grinding is to add a taper, so it will easily thread into the hole. The length isn't important. You could just buy a replacement to use as a special tool. Probably worth the $$ if you plan to try this.

31513-SM4-000

Also the taper to almost-a-point reduces the friction against the timing tensioner. Without the taper you will never be able to turn the rod and compress the tensioner.

I tried this once without adding a taper, and quickly gave up.

 

Thank you for that I will use what I have on hand it's the same thread count I thought it worked as a wedge I didn't realize it was holding the tensioner compressed by screwing in🤦🏼‍♀️

 

You're not supposed to turn the rod to compress the tensioner, it's only there to hold the adjuster in its current position.

 

I see now... Thank you

 

I've done mine twice already and always skipped right over that part. I don't see the need for it => zero consequence.

 

Correct, it's kind of a useless step. It's only there if you're reusing a used timing belt so you don't have to remove the tensioner and recompress it. With a new belt, they tell you to remove the J bolt, compress the tensioner and reinstall the J bolt so it holds it in its most retracted position, a totally unnecessary step.

 

Unless you are certain that your aftermarket j-hooks are the same thread pitch as the original ones, I wouldn't use them. If it is not threading into the tab on the engine easily, I wouldn't force it. Might want to take a trip to the junk yard and find original replacements. As Vquan said, don't use it to compress the tensioner piston. There is more info for this on the Timing Belt for Dummies thread

 

I've used the battery hold down on two separate TB + WP jobs and found it unnecessary both times. I'm gonna skip it for my third.

 

I like the kits with the new tensioner. Not much more, and replaces the part that actually seems to fail most often.

 

This is what happened to me when I tried to pull the pin without using the battery holder j-hook. If I would have kept pulling the pin, I would have eventually destroyed the tensioner.

If you are not planning on using the j hook method, then make sure you pull the pin with enough speed and force. You must also pull the pin straight out instead of twisting like I did. I found this difficult given the limited space to pull the pin. Or maybe I'm just a wussy.

Even if you manage to get the pin out clean, you still run the risk of jumping the belt from the force that the tensioner will slap the belt. Always double check your timing marks after pulling the pin.

There are many ways to skin a cat. Do what works for you.

 

It's 100 times easier to simply remove the tensioner. Even if you are going to re-use it.

You can use a simple hand-held C-clamp to compress the tensioner. Even a brand new tensioner barely takes any effort turning the handle by hand. Just hold the tensioner vertically (piston at top) and compress it slowly and it will retract. Holding the tensioner vertically is important as it keeps the internal fluid where it needs to be. As you get to the end, you may have to use the pin or drill bit to align all 3 holes as you compress. The piston turns easily. Personally I cover the pads of the C-clamp with electrical tape so it doesn't score the tip of the piston.

As seen in that previous photo, the grenade pin is pretty soft. Even if installed properly (through all 3 holes) it can still bend slightly and be very difficult to pull out. Just use some pliers to yank it once installed.

If your pin is damaged, you can use a drill bit instead and yank that out with pliers. Drill bits are much harder, don't deform, and have a smoother body.

Just trying to save you guys from those "panicked" moments I've experienced in the past.

Oh......and yes Honda's instructions say to simply pull the grenade pin and let it snap out on it's own. That's what every dealership everywhere does. You don't need force it to extend slowly with the battery J bolt.

 

From the manual. It recommends using the j hook.

 

People often pick and choose when they will follow the manual like it's the law and when it doesn't matter...