Cam Chain Tensioner sound...

[Ijuggle]

Is there a you-tube link to hear what a FJR cam chain tensioner problem sounds like?

How about a description of the sound/symptoms.

I'm hearing a sort of "slap/miss" at idle lately and wonder what it is. Valves adjusted 15,000 ago. Gen 1.

Thanks.

 

[JamesK]

I would replace the CCT with the new and improved version, it's really cheap insurance against granading your engine.

 

[escapefjrtist]

Listen for chain noise / slapping from the RH side of the engine. It'll be obvious if something isn't right.

As JamesK says, change the CCT, it's cheap insurance against a ruined engine.

--G

 

[Fred W]

I have never seen a good video that captured the sound of a loose timing chain, but once you have heard it (on pretty much any engine) you'll know what it sounds like on others. It is a hollow metallic rattly, knocking noise that is engine speed dependent, that usually occurs somewhat inconsistently. As was mentioned. the noise will clearly be coming from the right (chain) side of the engine, and that is key.

Agree 100% with the CCT replacement on an '04, especially if it's never been done before. The '04's seem to be over-represented in the bikes we know of with catastrophic CCT failures. The new CCTs are not that expensive ($70?) and can be done relatively easily. Just read up on the procedure and be sure to secure that chain from jumping a tooth on the crankshaft while doing the swap out.

 

[huron52]

If it has never been changed CHANGE IT NOW! If it has but say more than five years ago, CHANGE IT again.

 

[Geezer]

While I agree 100 percent that you should change the CCT if it has not been done recently, I don't know if that will fix your problem with a "slap/miss". You may need spark plugs, an new air cleaner, some injector cleaner, or maybe just a throttle body sync.

 

[Ijuggle]

Thanks for the help. I've ordered a new tensioner and gasket. Got any good info on the install?

Throttle bodies are sync'ed, air cleaner is clean, injector clearer 3000 miles ago, plugs are 3000 miles old. Definitely no car tires mounted on this bike.

 

[Chuck35]

The sound of a loose chain reminds me of marbles in a coffee can

 

[Chiefblueman]

Here's a nice thread https://www.fjrforum.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=116778

Do a google search: replace cam chain tensioner site:fjrforum.com lots there.

I heard it loud and clear on a '04 I test rode. Chuck's description is right on.

 

[TomInPA]

The timing chain slap on mine was worse during deceleration. I did the CCT swap at the first valve check, and never heard it again. I posted at #44 in the FJRBluesman Lessons Learned thread and Simon added my removal of the clutch cover to the procedure. It really makes things so much easier when you can get some swing room on the ratching wrench.

Some good information in this thread. Above all, make certain the chain does not slip a tooth during the change. I used a 10 mm socket wedged into the space between the timing case and the chain slipper in the upper left corner of the timing case. I backed this up by tying the timing chain to the sprocket. This kept tension on the chain while the old CCT was removed, until the new CCT was installed and released. Chances are the timing cover gasket will not be replaced, but good to have one available.

Watch out for the signal generator wires that run along the front of the timing case. They must not be pinched or damaged, or you will have found the other way to make the bike not run.

 

[Geezer]

Thanks for the help. I've ordered a new tensioner and gasket. Got any good info on the install?
Throttle bodies are sync'ed, air cleaner is clean, injector clearer 3000 miles ago, plugs are 3000 miles old. Definitely no car tires mounted on this bike

After you ensure that the chain will not slip from the gear, and you use all of the tricks you have to get the old CCT out, take a hacksaw or dremel or something like that to cut a slot in the top of the two CCT mounting bolts so that you can use a straight screwdriver to turn them in, and back out next time. You'll still need to use a wrench to loosen and tighten them.

 

[Ijuggle]

New tensioner is in. Noise is gone. Thanks for the help.