Abstract: A chain tensioner blade having a supporting bracket and a blade shoe supported on the bracket is described, wherein a resiliently deformable intermediate layer is provided between the bracket and the shoe. The intermediate layer is preferably rubber, and allows the shoe to conform to the curvature of the chain. The contact stiffness between the chain and the tensioner blade is thereby reduced, resulting in a more even distribution of chain load, and enhanced wear and noise properties.

Abstract: A chain tensioner for tensioning a chain in a drive of an internal combustion engine comprises a piston displaceable within a chamber. The piston is biased by a compression spring so that it protrudes from the housing towards the chain to provide the tension. The chamber has an inlet connected to a supply of oil from the engine. The oil acts on each side of the piston with substantially the same pressure such that the piston is damped in both directions when moving in the chamber. The surface areas of the piston on which the oil acts may be substantially equal so that no tensioning force is supplied by the oil.