Topic: I think it's time for a cam chain tensioner (PICS)

[JLeather]

Pulled this engine outta my stash of parts motors to make an 836 for my current chopper build.  I had been saving this one as one of my better motors because as recently as 2 years ago it was in a bike I was actually riding.  I knew it went through all the gears, and didn't pop out, so I thought it'd be the best candidate.

Now, I was already planning on a full top-end rebuild to go with the new Wiseco 836 kit I've got, and that of course includes the cam chain/tensioner.  But I wasn't prepared to find this inside of it:





Now I've opened up some rought motors, some of which have say for years with water inside, etc.  And I've found some pretty bad tensioners and such, but this was in a runner that I was riding just a couple years ago.  As I recall it wasn't particularly noisy or anything.  Just thought I'd share.

[mystic_1]

Heh, the one in mine looked like that the first time I pulled the motor apart.  Didn't realize at first how bad it was until I got the replacement then it was like 

mystic_1

[Gorms]

Wow thats worn.  But since you can take the timing chain sprocket off the cam to get the chain off, is the chain tight enough without tension to keep it from skipping teeth on the chain sprocket?  I know on some engines, if the tensioner fails, its Mr. Valve meet Mr. Piston.  Im just curious...replace the tensioner.

[bryanj]

Replace ALL the rubber bits including those two little dohickies that go in the ends of the pivot rods ----- (plus the chain of course)