GS1000S cam chain tensioner

[finchy4]

Good afternoon all,

It's been quite some time since I have posted but the GS has been pretty well faultless over this years.

However, it's time to check out the cam chain and tensioner on my GS as I get the occasional chatter, sometimes when cold but rarely once warmed up

I have a cam chain on order but I would appreciate any advice on if I should retain the original tensioner (after stripping it and replacing the main spring - which I already have) or fitting an after market manual tensioner.

Any advice gratefully received.

Regards

David

[Nessism]

The stock tensioner is perfectly serviceable. Just make sure it's working right. Since your bike is over 40 years old, I'd replace the seals. Only reason to change the tensioner to manual, in my opinion, is if racing regularly.

[rphillips]

Only tensioner problem I've seen was oil leaking. If you like manual tensioners you can let yours tighten up then lock it down with the lock screw and nut on the side,

[tom203]

“as I get the occasional chatter, sometimes when cold but rarely once warmed up“

sure it’s not an exhaust part misbehaving?
put your hand on tensioner body and see if you feel any chattering.

[chuck hahn]

Tensioner tutorial here.
To check its operating correctly when bike is running just twist the knob a little counter clockwise and you should feel it pulsing.

EDIT.. Go to harbor freight and buy you a stethescope and listen to things. Could be a worn shim bucket or something else transferring sound that SEEMS like its the tensioner.

https://gsarchive.bwringer.com/storagecliff/images/engine_odds-n-ends.html#A05

[finchy4]

Thank you gentlemen for your replies.

Definitely food for thought.

I have some time this week to investigate further while giving her a thorough service.

Regards to all.