Topic: Metal in my oil: The Saga Continues

[sparty]

Last night, I checked my valve clearance and made the slight necessary adjustments.  Then I proceeded to adjust the cam chain tension. When I released the cam chain tension screw I heard a distinctive click as the bar was released and the spring set the tension.  From that noise, I guesstamate that the cam chain tension was much too loose.  It was also the cause of the metal bits in my oil filter cover as the cam chain rubbed against the head.   I did have a little bobble when I was reinstalling the valve tappet covers.  I had a tappet cover break... the threads just separated from the nut head.  I feared the worst, but I was easily able to extract the threads from the valve cover.  However, now I won't be able to test my ride until I can get a new cover.

[SteveD CB500F]

Cam tunnel shavings are aluminium so won't be the ones on the magnet.

[Tim.]

But the mechanics of the cam chain tensioner / slipper are steel, are they not?  I'm sorry, but I've lost track of what model bike we're discussing 

If it's like my 550, if the slipper is completely worn down, the chain would be rubbing on metal, wouldn't it?

[Terry in Australia]

I'm with Steve, so I reckon it's more likely the chunks of steel are more likely transmission or starter clutch particles. Cheers, Terry.

[sparty]

Steve and Terry,

There is no telling how long the bits of magnetic metal were in the pan.  The PO’s kid may have been a little hard on the bike when he was learning to ride.  Like you suggested, they are likely from the tranny and starter clutch.  I’ll tackle that inspection next.  Since I am just learning about this engine, it seems to take me three times as long to do the work as it should.  For instance, it took me from 7 PM until 9:30 PM last night to check the valve clearances and adjust the cam chain… that includes clean up of my mess.  At this rate, I’ll never be on the road.

[SteveD CB500F]

it took me from 7 PM until 9:30 PM last night to check the valve clearances and adjust the cam chain…

It takes us all that long the first time.  Now you know how, next time will take 20 mins

[mcpuffett]

thats half the fun  , learning how they work,   mick.

[sparty]

Mick,

I agree, I was just wondering if I was a mental midget or something.  Glad I am not alone.

[dusterdude]

terry in oz is the only mental midget here.

[Terry in Australia]

terry in oz is the only mental midget here.

Get #$%*ed Dusty, my name's Terry, not Silicon Doc, ha ha!