Topic: CL/CB450 cam chain

[PSUrandy]

I'm assembling my 450 engine and I need the tool to crimp the master link in the timing chain.  Does anyone recommend a tool for this job?
Thanks

[CycleRanger]

Probably no help at all but appropriate for the occasion!

[MoMo]

I remember using that tool many, many times back in the 70's-it sure made rebuilding the 450 a smoother task.  Maybe your local Honda dealer still has one   Can't hurt to ask...Larry

[grcamna2]

I have the Yamaha special tool ordered from the Yamaha Dealer back in the 90's for my TX500 and the dealer said it was made by the Kent-Moore Co....but to me it sure looked to be Made in Japan.I know I won't be able to get another one from them...and the bits are hardened & delicate.Possibly Bore Tech has a connection for a new one.
+1 for what Larry said; how much would they charge just for you to make an appointment & 10 minutes work ??

++1 on what chickenman_26 said...it's ridiculously easy to over-tighten it  .

[chickenman_26]

http://pitposse.com/pochcurito.html
However, if you've never riveted a cam chain before, it would be a good idea to practice on some old chain before actually trying it on your own motor. None of these tools do the job correctly all by themselves. The end result depends on the skill of the user.

Stu

[MCRider]

We would backstop the link with an appropriate wedge, then peen an "X" in the end of the pin with a small chisel.

[Bill/BentON Racing]

Yep,MCRider,we did it that way until we got a tool.Never had one come apart that I know of. not a lot of side to side forces,As long as peened ,it'll hold or should! Bill

[MCRider]

Yep,MCRider,we did it that way until we got a tool.Never had one come apart that I know of. not a lot of side to side forces,As long as peened ,it'll hold or should! Bill

Glad to know we weren't the only ones. I was just a kid and did what i was told. Took a little pride in making a nice "X".

[PSUrandy]

I've done chains on farm equipment, mostly 60 and 80 chain, a lot bigger than this cam chain.  The chisel route seems the easiest.  You just need to buck up the chain (wood block/wedge) and use a small chisel to peen the master link?  Any advice on timing the cams to the crank?  I hope I can still see the marks on cams.
Thanks!

[grcamna2]

Time the cams and get them both on their marks w/ all the slack out of the top between the cams...w/o the cam chain tensioner installed;at this point it's possible to "slip" the chain a little..one tooth at a time on the lower crankshaft sprocket.I would keep re-installing the cam chain tens. to check it until you get it "on the mark".

[Ross Davis]

Thanks for the input all.  I found an excellent item on eBay that worked great.  It is for many sized chains and decrimps also.  Done deal and a nice tool for all future jobs.