Cam Chain Play at Front Guide

[CharlestonRider]

Hello All,

I recently purchase a 2005 FJR1300 and noticed that I was getting some rattling at idle and slow speeds (30K miles). I could also feel it in the handlebars. So, I decided that I should replace the cam chain tensioner (based on the weak CCT design and the discussions on this site). Well, I removed the cam chain cover on the right side of the motor and I was somewhat surprised by how "loose" the chain feels against the front tensioner (the side opposite of the CCT). Apparently, the chain guide is captured in place by the valve cover, but I am able to pull the chain away (slightly) from the front guide.

Is this normal? I expected the front side to be tighter against the chain guide, but this does not seem to be the case. It would seem that this would create the rattle that I feel. Any suggestions?

Thank you in advance.

Cheers.

CharlestonRider

 

[garyahouse]

I'm anxious to hear about this one. Hope the answer you receive is detailed. You're not the only one who's curious about cam chain diagnosis and/or dealing with the decision of replacing the CCT.

Gary

darksider #44

 

[CharlestonRider]

Thanks Gary. I will continue to investigate this issue. I will post what I find.

Cheers.

CharlestonRider

 

[SkooterG]

I can't remember what mine was like when I had it all apart. I am wondering if it is just some temporary slack. I mean, when the engine is running and the crank sprocket is driving the system, I can't see how there would be any slack then. You could always remove the side cover and crank the system with a wrench. I bet the slack would then disappear. I don't think this is an issue.

 

[Chuck35]

or drop it in gear and rotate the rear wheel....

 

[wfooshee]

The front side is not a tensioner, just a guide. That's the side that's pulled by the crankshaft, thus always under tension naturally. The tensioner is on the "slack" side to keep the chain from actually getting slack on that side.

What you're seeing is not an issue. That side of the chain run is VERY snug when the bike's running, the result of having to drag the cams along for the ride.

 

[Auburn]

1347072474[/url]' post='998226']The front side is not a tensioner, just a guide. That's the side that's pulled by the crankshaft, thus always under tension naturally. The tensioner is on the "slack" side to keep the chain from actually getting slack on that side.

What you're seeing is not an issue. That side of the chain run is VERY snug when the bike's running, the result of having to drag the cams along for the ride.

Doing an '05 right now with a friend. His is exactly as you describe. His cct was very weak. Everything is nice and snug again. The front does have a very slight amount of play which I take to be normal for the reasons you described.

His cct is original with 60k miles on it.

 

[CharlestonRider]

Thanks to everyone who has replied to this post...I really appreciate it. I have my new tensioner installed and it appears that much of the slack that I had originally has disappeared. I am happy!