So, for those curious, the entire engine ended up out that F-350 I posted about, and we're to the assembly stage, the heads are bolted down to the block and it's time to time it, drivers side timing chain is on (other than tension), and I have two questions. One, the balance shaft came off and the cams to have the heads pretty well rebuilt, the exhaust stud repair done, and all that. I have the Ford procedure present, but can't make heads or tails of how to time the balance shaft, and I'm nearing that step, anyone got advice on that? The other thing is, timing chain tensioners, they're both almost new 3v tensioners (the engine was a really low mile 3v when it was taken apart), but I can't tell any real difference between them, but it's a long hard ways back here if they're wrong, is there any real harm in them being backwards? Looking at the engine, I'm pretty sure they'll work either way, but I figure I better ask.

EDIT - It's a 99 F-350 with the 6.8, probably should mention that, not going 3v or anything either, truck isn't worth it, just a fully stock 2v.

 

I have no clue about the tensioners, but ... I would certainly see if you can compare between the 3-valve and the 2-valve ones before you go any further.

As to the balance shaft:

 

Ended up with new 2v ones, turns out both my 3v ones were for one side. As for timing the balance shaft, that's easier than it looked IMO, the engine is built and ready to sit back in. Building one of these isn't the worst thing I've ever done.