Chevrolet Repair: timing chain tensioner on 98 malibu 2.4, screw driver, chain tensioner

Question
i am changing the water pump on a 98 malibu 2.4 motor.i pushed the tensioner  in all the way by mistake and i can't get it to come out.is it bad and needs replacing,or does it pop out from the oil pressure. can it be tested?

Answer
HI AL,I WILL ASSUME THE TENSIONER IS IN ON THE BLOCK AND FULLY SEATED IN ITS BORE ??? GET A LARGE SCREW DRIVER BETWEEN THE TOP OF THE PISTON AND THE GUIDE SHOE,GET SOME LEVERAGE AND PUSH THE PISTON INTO THE BORE A BIT MORE IF POSS,THEN REMOVE THE SCREW DRIVER REAL QUICK THIS SHOULD SNAP THE PISTON BACK OUT TO PRESS AGAINST THE SHOES. IT IS STUCK..THE OIL PRESSURE OF THE ENGINE WILL THEN HOLD IT OUT..IF THIS DOES NOT WORK, YOU MAY NEED TO GET A NEW TENSIONER WITH THE SHOE ALL IN ONE PIECE. IF THE PISTON COMES OUT YOU SHOULD NOT NEED TO REPALCE IT.. USUALLY SNAPING THE PISTON BRINGS IT BACK OUT..LET ME KNOW HOW THIS WORKS AND GOOD LUCK TO YOU,,,TOM...