Topic: Master Link Cam Chain

[Rosinante]

A friend wonders if a non-continuous (master link) cam chain is a stoopid idea.  He is repairing a 1981 CB900 and hopes to avoid splitting the case (apparently a somewhat challenging procedure).

I see photos of cam chain master links using clips instead of rivets.  Can anyone confirm their reliability?  The reason I ask is that some folks question master link clips for final drive chains.  Final drive chains turn MUCH MUCH MUCH slower than cam chains do.

Rivet-type master links also exist for cam chains.  I suspect these actually do work, as long as they are properly riveted (or peened or swedged or whatever term is correct).

What say ye?

[bryanj]

450 and 500 twin were designed to use rivet links and chain is same size as 350, 400, 500, 550 and 750 standard chains.
I thought the later 900 used hyvo chains and never seen a link for those

[Flyin900]

While a Hyvo cam chain link does exist and some brave souls have used it..... not a best practice by a long shot. That engine is big, heavy and not easy to work with, yet the bottom case can be removed to access the transmission, crank shaft and shift fork areas.
Not a commonly rebuilt motor these days it seems, as they are dying off slowly in demand and collectability.  :'(

[robvangulik]

I have replaced the cam chain on my CBR1000F's several times over the last 30 years, Hyvo chains can easily be broken and stitched again by pressing 1 pin out and later in again. My oldest CBR has now well over 350.000 km on the clock.

[Flyin900]

I have replaced the cam chain on my CBR1000F's several times over the last 30 years, Hyvo chains can easily be broken and stitched again by pressing 1 pin out and later in again. My oldest CBR has now well over 350.000 km on the clock.

That's impressive..... plus someone who has experience with actually doing it.

Still not easily done though, unless you possess the skills at a good mechanical level and the correct tools for the job.

I am impressed with your work on actually breaking the chain and reconnecting it, so a nice response!

[Rosinante]

Well-said.  There must be some toolage and expertise at work in stitching these chains.