Author Topic: Cam chain tensioner again  (Read 1330 times)

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Offline GeoffT

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Cam chain tensioner again
« on: February 08, 2008, 05:52:49 AM »
OK tried to adjust the cam chain on my 77 550. No1 15 degrees ATDC loosened lock nut but adjuster screw won't move. Springs back into position. Is that what is meant to happen or is it just stuck? Tried tapping it gently but no difference. Obviously don't want to apply much pressure in case I do some damage.

Thanks in advance for your help guys.

Offline bryanj

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Re: Cam chain tensioner again
« Reply #1 on: February 08, 2008, 07:09:41 AM »
you dont put ANY pressure on a 500/550. The locknut is just that, tensioner is automatic and if it dont work either its toast or the chain is worn out
Semi Geriatric ex-Honda mechanic and MOT tester (UK version of annual inspection). Garage full of "projects" mostly 500/4 from pre 73 (no road tax in UK).

Remember "Its always in the last place you look" COURSE IT IS YOU STOP LOOKIN THEN!

Offline GeoffT

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Re: Cam chain tensioner again
« Reply #2 on: February 08, 2008, 08:33:16 AM »
Thanks Bryan,  ;) I did half wonder but I think I was misreading the instructions.  ::)  I've yet to start up the engine but hopefully it will sound better when I do.

Offline bryanj

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Re: Cam chain tensioner again
« Reply #3 on: February 08, 2008, 11:10:55 PM »
What you can do is loosen the nut and then put pressure on the crank so its just about to turn, either with the kickstart OR with a big spanner on the big nut on the auto advance so that all the camchain "slack" is at the back and then, whilst holding the pressure get your mechanically trained spider to tighten the locknut. Been doin that on ALL OHC hondas for 30 years and as long as the tensioner moves and the chain aint worn out its guaranteed to work
Semi Geriatric ex-Honda mechanic and MOT tester (UK version of annual inspection). Garage full of "projects" mostly 500/4 from pre 73 (no road tax in UK).

Remember "Its always in the last place you look" COURSE IT IS YOU STOP LOOKIN THEN!

Offline SteveD CB500F

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Re: Cam chain tensioner again
« Reply #4 on: February 09, 2008, 12:01:21 AM »
When I saw Geoff's post I immediately looked in the FAQ as I'm sure this has come up before - in fact I'm sure it was either "BryanJ's patent method for tensioning camchains...  or Hondaman's.

Save you some typing next time Bryan!
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Offline GeoffT

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Re: Cam chain tensioner again
« Reply #5 on: February 09, 2008, 01:40:23 AM »
Thanks again guys. I did look in Faq's as well but missed this paricular gem.

Bryan, your method sounds so simple, did not get a chance to get at the bike yesterday so I'm going to try your method this morning. Thanks again.

Offline bryanj

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Re: Cam chain tensioner again
« Reply #6 on: February 09, 2008, 07:54:10 AM »
Yeh I know Steve but the dearly beloved tells me I've gone senile anyway---I think its when there is no money left and I just Dont Remember spending that much!!!!!
Semi Geriatric ex-Honda mechanic and MOT tester (UK version of annual inspection). Garage full of "projects" mostly 500/4 from pre 73 (no road tax in UK).

Remember "Its always in the last place you look" COURSE IT IS YOU STOP LOOKIN THEN!