Topic: CB550 Cam installation

[kabuki]

Completing a full engine rebuild, and cannot get my cam re-installed.

I've installed a new cam chain and tensioner as well as a hardwelded 58a webcam. I have the camchain tensioner at full slack with the head torqued to spec. Just cannot get that chain onto the sprocket.

I'm sliding the cam with sprocket through the chain from the speedo side. Once I get everything close I can just barely drop the cam into place with the chain off the sprocket to the #4 side. The problem now is that there just isn't enough room in the tunnel to drop the sprocket off the cam shoulder to get more chain slack.

Help!

Couldn't find any old threads. I'm wondering if maybe I installed the front cam guide blade upside down (I know it's marked). Can someone remind me where the marking is so I can inspect to make sure everything there's okay?

Thanks,

[FunJimmy]

Couldn't find any old threads. I'm wondering if maybe I installed the front cam guide blade upside down (I know it's marked). Can someone remind me where the marking is so I can inspect to make sure everything there's okay?

There is a great post in the FAQ section regarding fitting the cam chain and sprocket onto the cam, but based on my experience ensure that the front guide is oriented correctly, then check the rear (adjustable tention) chain guide. The bottom of the guide assembly must fit into the saddle formed into the lower engine case. It's easy to install the rear chain guide incorrectly.

Later
Jim

[OldSchool_IsCool]

The trick I've found is to thread the cam shaft through the chain first, then slip the sprocket on from the left.  set the shaft into the bearings, alighn the crank and the cam.  the chain can then be lifted over the sprocket and the sprocket is then jockied into place.  Use the "Mickey Ears" cut into the sprocket when draping the chain over.  The whole assembly practically falls onto place if everything is aligned right.

[kabuki]

I must have one of the tensioner guides in wrong. My setup is certainly not "falling into place"

Thanks.

[OldSchool_IsCool]

Make sure the sprocket is on the left side of the chain.  When the cam shaft is in the bearings, the chain should be riding where the sprocket is supposed to be.  Set your crank at TDC 1.4 (under the points cover) and your cam shaft with the notch on the right end horizontal (aligned with the head's mating surface.  You may notice the "Micky Mouse Ears" cut in the center of the sprocket.  The mickey ear should allow the sprocket to get low enough to slip the cam chain over the top.  It should also position the sprocket to align with a bolt hole.

As for the tensioners, yes, the front guide has an up/down orientation.  The spring loaded "slipper" should be retracted all the way in and the lock nut tight to keep it there.

[mmtsquid]

I know you are beating your hear against the wall, but once you do it correctly it seems simple.
There really is only ONE way that it will go together!

[buffalogt750]

Just to clarify, to set the spring loaded tensioner at full slack, loosen lock nut, turn screw clockwise as much as you can and tighten lock nut to hold it there. All the other advice is great. Sprocket cannot be bolted onto cam until cam is in place and chain is on sprocket. Once you find the magic combination it will go in easily.

[Gordon]

8th post from the top:

http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=369.0

With pictures, too.

[kabuki]

I know you are beating your hear against the wall, but once you do it correctly it seems simple.
There really is only ONE way that it will go together!

I know, I can tell I need is the magic touch and then all will be well...

[kabuki]

8th post from the top:

http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=369.0

With pictures, too.

Thanks everyone for the help... How did I miss this!?

Can't wait to get home and give it a shot.