Cam Chain Question

[Bizcocho]

With my valve cover off, I can lift the cam chain and loosen it. Hitting the starter for a few revs tightens it up again. It's not too hard to loosen. Is this OK? I understood the tensioner should advance and lock in place.

Rich
1980 GS550E

[Steve]

Before you hit the starter again, STOP.

Yes, the tensionser should be keeping things snug. Because it is not, I would recommend checking the cam timing first. If you have a manual, the procedure is in there. Basically, you will set the crank to the TDC mark found under the ignition cover, then make sure the exhaust cam is pointing the right direction. Following other marks on the cam sprocket, you will count a specified number of teeth to the mark on the intake cam. When you are assured that the cams have not jumped timing, pull the tensioner off and make sure it's working. On your bike, you will also have to remove the carbs to gain working room to remove the tensioner.

Bwringer has a fine tutorial on how to rebuild the tensioner. Rebuilding might not be necessary in your case, but it also has the proper procedure for how to put it back into place and make sure it's working.

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[Nessism]

Not sure how loose your cam chain is but it's normal to be able to see some slack in the chain as it bridges between the two cams. The question though is, how loose is loose?

I agree with Steve in that you should check the tensioner and verify the cam timing is correct in the case of excessive looseness.

[Bizcocho]

Thanks guys

I took off the tensioner and it was locked up; the knob wouldn't turn when the plunger was pushed in. I worked the knob until it was free and cleaned and lubed. She's quieter and smoother now.

Thanks,

Rich