Somethings wrong…

[steveskates]

So, a couple weeks ago, I had a friend help me try to change the starter on my gs450t. In order to get the starter out, we had to remove the cam chain tensioner. To do this, we just undid the two bolts holding it to the engine, and slid it out. Anyway, after we put it back on, things were fine for a ride. But the next time I took the bike for a ride, today… it seemed to be running funny. Not wanting to stay running… I started messing with the throttle adjuster- thinking maybe we bumped it while taking things apart. But also the engine seemed super hot. A little smoke even. So, when I looked in the climber manual, it said that there were other things we should’ve done before taking the cam chain tensioner off. And some things we didn’t do putting it back on. We just slid it back on and tightened it up… did I mess something up? Is it time for a professional to take a look? Thanks so much for reading this!!!!

[rphillips]

That doesn't sound right. if you didn't lock the plunger in before you removed the tensioner, or pushed the plunger back in and locked it in, before reinstalling it, you shouldn't have gone back in. How'd you do that?

[steveskates]

I don’t know? I don’t even know what a plunger is. It didn’t seem to want to go back in, but it did. The guy who was helping me (who doesn’t know much about motorcycles-but is kinda handy) said there was a spring that was keeping it from going back in easily.
but… We just took the two bolts off and slid the whole piece off, and then slid it back when we were done with the starter.

[Rich82GS750TZ]

Your Clymers Maunual should cover the procedure, but the rebuild and reset/reinstall instructions are covered in great detail in this technical tutorial with pictures by Brian Wringer, found on BikeCliffs Website.

https://www.bwringer.com/gs/camchaintens.html

[steveskates]

Should it be running at all right now? I mean I drove it for at least a mile or two today. Is it possible that it is installed incorrectly, but still running?

[GRich]

I wouldn't run the engine until you check the cam chain timing.

Check the service manual (Clymers, OEM, etc) on how to remove and install the cam chain tensioner, amd make sure that you reinstalled it properly. To check the timing, you have to line up the timing mark on the end of the crank to the timing marks on the camshafts. Sounds intimidating, but its not bad if you take your time. Would be a good time to check valve clearances too btw.

[steveskates]

Hey! Thanks a lot. I just called a local motorcycle mechanic and am planning to bring the bike up to him. This is a little (way) over my head. I really appreciate everyone for offering suggestions and helpful info. I’m gonna let the professionals take it from here! Thanks again!