Topic: Loud cam chain... problem?

[7]

I've concluded my cam chain tensioner or slipper has gone bad. Adjusting per the service manual results in an obviously loose chain with some terrible noises. The adjust screw is very sloppy for about 10° and then won’t go any further. This doesn’t seem abnormal (from others experiences) aside from what I believe to be too sloppy. I've tried the "tricks" outlined on this forum and I've gotten it at least running smoothly by applying pressure while the engine is at idle. Things seem ok now other than the chain is noisy. I can hear it up past 60 mph until wind noise drowns out everything.

This winter I plan to tear into the engine to replace seals/rings so it makes sense to fix the tensioner at that time. My question is am I going to do damage by riding it as it is? Probably some more wear on the cam chain but at 27K miles I don’t mind replacing that while I’m in there if for nothing more than peace of mind. I just want to get out a ride!!!

[bwaller]

Agreed. The only thing maintaining cam timing is that chain & tensioner. If it is really loose jumping teeth is a possibility. When you do get it apart remove the slipper bade from the tensioner, sometimes they break (usually at the top)but will maintain some tension.

[7]

So in researching how to replace the slipper I found the info on turning the crank to 15 degrees past tdc. Tried adjusting again. When I turn the screw clockwise it springs back. Tightened at this position and the sound is the same as before.  Any chance I'm being too picky about this noise? Obviously it's a chain drive so it will make some noise. How much noise is too much?

[flatlander]

you say you hear it until wind noise drowns it out. that would be way too much. if all is good you don't noticeably hear any rattling of the cam chain even when idling.
to be sure, you could post a video with sound?

[7]

to be sure, you could post a video with sound?

I'll post one in the next couple days when I'm back for a weekend away.

[eigenvector]

A video might point us to something else, but if your cam chain is making so much noise that you can hear it over the engine - it's beyond re-tensioning.  It's pretty tight in there.

If it is the chain, and it probably is (they don't last forever), there is no easy fix for it.  I destroyed an engine in the blink of an eye ignoring it and fiddling with the tensioner screw.