What is this?

[maxhog650]

And why wont the engine turn past a certain point? I took it off too get to the starter, i turned the engine a bit, i couldnt get it back on, i turned the engine more, it slipped back on.
So what is this thing, any fast help would be appreciated cause im working on it now. I'm gonna try to remove it, turn the engine a bit more and stick it in again but actually knowing what it is might be helpful
Thanks all

[kinnet]

Cam chain tensioner, i believe...

[SqDancerLynn1]

OUCH ! that is the cam chain tensioner. Look on BaseCliff's site for directions to check the cam timing & reset the tensioner
DO NOT START THE ENGINE until you check and make sure the chain did not slip !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[kingofvenus]

Cam chain tensioner. Before you do any more damage to it you had better take it to an experianced mechanic or procure the correct factory shop manual. You may have messed up the cam timing on it. There may be no way of knowing without taking the valve cover off.

[maxhog650]

ouch, this is all bad news. Really i cant just stick it back in, wishfull thinking i suppose. live and learn. I guess i'll take a peak at a shop manuel, no mechanic for me this is a money less project and i would like to keep the theme for a while.
Thanks for the quick responces

[tkent02]

And why wont the engine turn past a certain point?

Most likely because the piston is hitting a valve.
Do not turn the crankshaft at all until you get it figured out.
If you are lucky you might not have bent a valve yet.

[kinnet]

I dunno if you had this link for BassCliff's site.

http://members.dslextreme.com/users/bikecliff/

You'll definitely find helpful info there.

[Larry D]

Here you go.

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

[maxhog650]

thanks very much, looks like i got some problems ahead of me