A tensioner system for tensioning a power transfer member such as a chain or a belt is disclosed. In one example, the system includes a base adapted to rotate about a main shaft that is operatively coupled to a motor, a housing positioned around the main shaft and a plurality of deformable elastic members positioned within the housing. The system further includes a plurality of deforming members positioned within the housing around the main shaft, wherein the plurality of deforming members are adapted to be urged in a radially outward direction so as to deform the deformable elastic members.