Cam Chain Tensioner -- do I have to remove it

[Anonymous]

I have a GS850GL -- 1981

I have the valve cover off the bike making sure I have the correct shims thicknesses. In my eagerness to get things back together I forgot this step earlier.

I thought I'd go ahead and remove the caps from the cam shafts and relube the shaft -- I remembered to lube it during reassembly, but, since I'm in there I figure it can't hurt. I want to remove the shaft so I can hit all surfaces. (BTW, I retorqued the head bolts per other suggestions)

If I pull the shafts out, am I going to have to remove and reinstall the cam chain tensioner? Or can I leave it in while I move things around?

As always, thank you for the help.

[Anonymous]

You will have to remove the tensioner if you take the cams out.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the reply.

That was my sus picion -- I'm just growing weary of removing the carbs and airbox. Though ... I must admit, I'm getting faster.

[redliner1973]

If you use a 1/4 inch drive 10MM (or 8MM) swivel socket you won't have to take the carbs/airbox off. Takes me about 10 minutes this method. :twisted:

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the tip. I'll give it a shot.

[Anonymous]

Of course, if you had a manual tensioner, all you would have to do is back it out - not remove it.

[redliner1973]

If you use a 1/4 inch drive 10MM (or 8MM) swivel socket you won't have to take the carbs/airbox off. Takes me about 10 minutes this method. :twisted:

Oh, forgot, an extension (1/4 Drive ) is needed also. :twisted:

[SqDancerLynn1]

I think you are waisting your time to take it all apart. Take the plugs out and spin the motor over untill it has oil pressure.