Topic: 77 550 cam install

[mmtsquid]

OK, I've fought with getting the cam chain on the sprocket for several hours last night to no avail - Any suggestions?

[bryanj]

Havent got the book to hand but i remember you need to follow the manual descriptions and pictures closely, Also i seem to remember someone writing it up on the board

[mmtsquid]

I've tried searching, but haven't found anything solid.
I did go back and look at the manual this morning, and the pic shows the chain between the sprocket and mounting tab on the cam as a start point.
That was the one configuration I didn't try last night, so maybe thats the key.

[Sporkfly]

Put the cam sprocket next to the cam chain and hold it there. Insert the cam from the right side of the engine (when sitting on the bike) through the sprocket and chain (obviously enough).

Once you get it through and positioned on the bearing surfaces it gets tricky. This is where valve timing comes in. On the right side of the engine look through your points cover and line the T mark for 1/4 with the notch on the casing. There is a notch on the cam shaft (which should be on the right of the engine) which will line up with the engine casing at the rear at the front. From there put the chain over the sprocket and bolt it to the cam shaft while backing off the tensioner to give yourself some slack to bolt the sprocket on.

[bryanj]

I know the end you put it in from matters

[Sporkfly]

I know the end you put it in from matters

Yep, it needs to be installed from the right side of the engine with the chain between the cam bolt ears and sprocket. The notch on the end of the cam should be at the right side of the engine.

[mmtsquid]

Thanks for the good word gents - I'll report results tomorrow.
I CAN"T WAIT to get this 650 can in!

[Gordon]

I did a short write-up on installing the cam, sprocket, and chain with pictures a while back.  It's in the FAQ in the "engine" category. 

[mmtsquid]

OK, so after work I rushed home, changed clothes, and gave it another go.

chain on left of cam, sprocket on left of chain.

Wiggle, wiggle, wiggle.........CLICK!

It dropped into place within 30 seconds.

Thanks gents - you saved me LOTS of swearing!