Topic: Cam chain tensioner - CB550

[mslaptoptx]

I'm in the process of rebuilding one of my 550s ('78) and am wondering if anyone has run into any kind of aftermarket cam chain tensioner replacement? I've looked and haven't seen anything out there. I know that on my 350 twins it really makes a huge difference and replaces a very weak system. With all the other mods/upgrades I'm doing to this motor I'd feel the idiot not to check. Then again maybe this unit works so well there's no need to replace it.

Mike

[Brian G]

I don't think the 550s have the same troubled history as the CB400F when it comes to cam chain tensioners. I can tell you that I just pulled the head and barrel on my '78 to fix a leak from the oil passage o-ring () and the tensioner was fine. I wish the PO hadn't used hardening gasket goo on the head and base gaskets, though....

Regards,

[bryanj]

Honda only I'm afraid but on the good side the mechanism lasts forever unless abused by the owner(s) Blade may need a change tho'

[mslaptoptx]

Thanks everyone - now I can move on to other issues and not worry that I should have changed this out for a better system. I did notice on disassembly of a "78 550 motor w/ over 20K on the clock, that the tensioning system looked virtually new. I'll reast easy knowing it actually does the job it was designed to do.

Mike