Topic: 400f camchain tensioner replacement. Problem and questions

[GroovieGhoulie]

I'm wanting to replace the camchain tensioner on my 400 as I think the chain has worn into the horseshoe shaped piece, rendering it immobile.  The big problem?  In searching this board, I discovered that Honda has apparently discontinued that piece.  What are my options for finding one (or more than one)?  I am willing to pay whatever it takes to get my bike right.

Also, how far down does the engine have to be torn down to replace it?  Split the case?  If so, I should probably just go through the whole thing (bearings and seals) at the same time, huh?

[bryanj]

Try www.cmsnl.com or www.westernhillshonda.com for that tensioner, there were a few floating about old stock last year otherwise its a secondhand beter one from a junk motor. You do have to split the cases so you might as well do a total strip and check over

[supersport_CB400F]

Don’t worry about the horseshoe if you can’t get a new one…. if it’s not badly chewed, you can fix it with a needle file. Yes full engine strip but it’s not complicated just bag and label all the parts, it helps on the assembly and defiantly replace the seals and any other worn parts you find.

[Tim2005]

What state is the rest of the engine in? If it is running well, not using much oil, & the head gasket isn't weeping too badly then you can save yourself some effort (& cost of gaskets etc) by just pulling the engine out, removing the cam cover and cam, then splitting the crankcases- taking the bottom case off the (inverted) engine & leaving the whole barrels/head/pistons/crank etc in place. Fit a new camchain with a joining link, or separate the big-ends and slide a new endless chain along the crank. Takes a short  day to do it that way.

[GroovieGhoulie]

The rest of the engine is perfect.  No oil leaks, no oil consumption.  Perfect.

I may try that technique.