Topic: Drive chain replacement procedure

[db22]

After searching the FAQs and the board in general, I still don't see a description of the procedure to replace a worn final drive chain.  Replaced many a bicycle chain, but have never worked on a motorcycle's sprockets and chain before.  The bike is a 1975 CB550K -- specs call for a 17-tooth front, 37-tooth rear, and size 530 standard chain.  From searching various supplier's sites, it looks like a master link is requied, which is secured with a spring clip.  Is a special tool needed to fit this link and clip?  Also, the number of links is in question -- is 100 the stock length?

I apologize for asking a question that has been answered before.  Maybe it's so elementary that everyone (but me) knows how to do it, but I'd rather ask and look like an idiot, and have a good answer before proceeding, than order the wrong parts and mess the whole thing up.

[HondaMan]

You can check the chain length and stock sprockets with the parts fiche at www.kawasakipartsnation.com  (pick the Honda model in their selector).

There should be a master link. I usually centerstand the bike, then roll the master link to the back center of the rear sprocket, and unclip the old one. Then I hook the new chain on right there and pull the old one out below, feeding the new one in. It takes about 5 minutes that way.

Occasionally you will find a press-in (or "riveted") master link on the bike: these can be removed by grinding off the riveted ends of the master link's studs. The 550 does not make enough HP to warrant the use of these troublesome devices, but they are found on many bikes, anyway.

But, check your sprockets, first. If they appear "hooked" in the slightest (i.e., worn into the metal on the pulling side of the teeth), get new ones or that chain will only last about 3000 miles.
 

[db22]

Thanks, Hondaman!!

[Kong]

When you go to unclip the old one, make sure the bike is in gear.  Don't take it out of gear to reel the old one off until you've got the new one clipped on.  Think about it and you'll figure out why, and yes, it does happen.

[Gaither]

Kong

+1     You just "saved his life"!!!!

It would be infuriating to watch the chain suddenly wind itself off onto the floor. (That's usually the way I do stull.)

[TwoTired]

Book says 100 links is correct.

Don't let anyone tell you an oring chain is ok for this bike.  They are too wide unless you make sprocket modifications at the front.

Worn out sprockets will wear out a new chain very quickly.

Cheers,