[n4mwd]

You need to find out why the tensioner isn't working first. How many miles does the engine have again?

The tensioner is basically just a strip of metal that flexes when the CCT lever goes down. If the top part of the strip isn't connected properly, the strip wont flex and push against the chain to tighten it.

Another possibility is that the chain is simply worn out. Maybe try to measure it and compare to factory specs.

Lastly, the lever pivot bolt may simply be jammed with gunk or something.

Since you have the top off, I would try to look down the cam chain tunnel at the top of the tensioning strip and make sure its connected properly. Note that there are two strips, right and left, and only the left one (rearmost) works with the tensioner.

If the tensioner is connected properly at the top, then its time to pull the clutch basket and take a good close look at the lower end mechanism and make sure that it works properly.

Its possible that the tensioner strip itself could be broken, but not likely.