A blade tensioner comprising a blade shoe with a proximal end pivotally attached to the bracket and a distal end of a clevis shape having a raised portion and a recessed portion for receiving a semicircular ratchet wheel, with an edge of the raised portion defined by a radial journal in between a pair of shoulders. The ratchet wheel is pivotally attached to the recessed portion of the distal end of the blade shoe having a plurality of ratchet teeth, a pair of shoulders, and a reduced diameter portion forming a bearing surface with the radial journal of the raised portion of the distal end. A ramp surface having a plurality of ramp teeth that receives the ratchet teeth of the ratchet wheel and allows freedom of movement in the direction of the pivot pin, but limits movement in the opposite direction to the designated backlash.