Topic: Timing chain joiner links?

[354]

I need to replace the timing chain in my '74 cb350f, and i thought rather than pull the engine out and split the cases i would  put a joiner/master link in a new chain. does any body make one? would it stay together with a joiner rather than all one?

Thanks!

[Triffecpa]

there are a couple of different master link designs for cam chains.  There is a press fit one and one where you rivet over the pins to hold the side plate in place.  I have used both on my race bikes that regularly see redline and then some and have never had a problem. 

I would go ahead and replace the chain while you are at it though and make sure that you buy, or get with the chain, the proper masterlink.

CB350F cam chains aren't real easy to find, but you can find ones for the CB750 for less than $30.  The chains are identical to the 350F ones except that they are about 10 links longer. 

Cut the existing chain with bolt cutters, safety wire the new chain to the end of the old one and pull the new chain thru as you pull the old one out.  Then you can lay the two ends of the new chain across the sprocket and figure out exactly how many links to remove.  Grind the pins off and pull the side plate off and you now have a shorter chain.

Tracy

[scunny]

I've just done this on my 650, it has the hyvo chain but the principal is the same. mine was a press fit, I asked a mechanical engineer who specialises in chain and transmission drives about the reliability of the press fit joiner and he said you actually compromise the liks integrity if you try and peen the end over. this doesn't apply to the "soft links"
cut away as Triffecpa said and draw the new chain thru.

[354]

Thanks! Do you know where i can get a chain and joiner or what size of joiner to order? Bike bandit has Tsubaki chains for 350f for 30 couple dollars, but no joiner.

Thanks

[scunny]

David Silver Spares has them, do a google, great people to deal with.

[tmac]

Try Z1 Enterprises.

[354]

Hey, i checked out David Silver Spares...lotsa good stuff, should i get their DID chain or genuine Honda (and a soft link)? What can a fella use to rivet the joiner without spending a fortune?

Thanks!

[fmctm1sw]

CB350F cam chains aren't real easy to find, but you can find ones for the CB750 for less than $30.  The chains are identical to the 350F ones except that they are about 10 links longer. 

This is exactly why I come here just about every single day.  Great tip...

[Deltarider]

should i get their DID chain or genuine Honda

Genuine Honda is D.I.D (219T-82L)