Topic: CB550 Primary Chain Wear

[Rocketman]

First post to the forum.  Can't thank all those who have posted previously for the information that has saved me time and money by learning from others.  Currently deep into a CB550 track day project.  I am replacing the primary chain.  There is no obvious wear to the primary gear or crank gear.  Any tips or suggestions on replacing the primary gear and related components?  Thanks!

[Deltarider]

There is no obvious wear to the primary gear or crank gear. I am replacing the primary chain.

May I ask why?

[bwaller]

The gear is tough, no need to change. There are dampers inside the driven gear on the primary shaft. (circlip holds in place) If you can rotate the gear at all you might consider replacing those rubbers since you're in the neighbourhood.

[Rocketman]

Thanks for the responses.  Raced production 2 strokes in the 70's and 80's.  Even so, there is a learning curve to 4 strokes.  I appreciate the advice.

[rb550four]

Rocketman, is your current primary chain slack and have allot of side to side play in it?Then it is worn. Has it been wearing on the cam chain tentioner perch? That's when we know that it is really wore out.
    I usually change  my primary chain the first time I get into the bottom end  and change the cam chain at the same time because I'm already there and I don't want to go back for something that I could have done in the first place.  It's 2 less things to worry about.

[bryanj]

As previously said replace chain when it touches the crankcase, gears rarely, if ever, need changing but the damper rubbers do as the hot oil, and age degrades them