Topic: Shortening cam chain - verification.

[Dimitri13]

Alright guys, I got my Tsubaki cam chain in. It's meant for a 750, which is why it needs to be cut down. BUT, it has flat-side links, which is supposed to be quieter, last longer, and be gentler on the tensioner parts.

The 750 chain is 94 links. The 550 chain is 88 links. I spent about 30 minutes confusing myself, but I'm 99% certain I have it set up properly to be cut and master linked together.



The two bright dots is where it will be drilled, removing 6 links (each link being one "pin" of the chain), and the master link will be pressed into the two bottom (inside) links making it whole again.

I just wanted to verify that that's correct, as the shop I take it to is good, but they expect you to measure and stuff. I managed to screw up a drive chain because I didn't know what I was doing and counted 10 PLATES, instead of 10 LINKS, so it actually took off 20 links.

[dave500]

cut an old one and lay it out,then match the new one to it?

[74750k4]

and have a few dozen drill bits on hand...     better to put in your vise, and CAREFULLY grind off the rivet head with an angle grinder, wearing eye protection of course...
and you have the correct Tsubaki link to install, right?

http://www.z1enterprises.com/ItemDetails.aspx?itemDescription=Cam+Chain+Master+Link+Tsubaki+BF05M&item=TU25-9920

and the tool to install it properly?

http://www.cyclegear.com/CycleGear/Accessories/Tools/Multi-Tools/brand/STOCKTON-TOOL-COMPANY/Chain-Breaker-and-Rivet-Tool-Kit/p/36518_00000

[Dimitri13]

Oh I'll be taking it to a shop to get shortened. I do have the master link.

I threw out my old cam chain along with my old primary chain.

[Dave Voss]

Forgive me for asking, but I thought camshaft chains should be of the continuous type without a master link.  Can you source a shorter continuous chain with the correct number of links?  It can be difficult to shorten a chain and install a master link without causing any distortion, deflection, damage, etc. even when using high quality tools.  If the shortened chain ends up with any trouble spots, the sprockets and/or tensioner are likely to wear faster than normal.  Just my 2 cents...

[Bailgang]

It's been a while since I checked but isn't the 550 cam chain a smaller gauge chain than the 750 chain? I'm not talking about the amount of links but the actual size of the chain. Will it work with the 550 cam sprocket and teeth down at the crank? Just asking.

[Dimitri13]

Yep according to the HiPo guys a 750 chain works, just needs to be shortened.

[Bailgang]

I'll have to keep that in mind then.