dial between carb and engine intake

[Anonymous]

1980 GS1100 ex

There is a dial right below and between my carbs and the back of the engine (where the intake for the carbs is). It has a spring on it so that if you spin it, it returns to its position. I dont see anything on checking this part in my manual. And i want to make sure its not causing me any problems with its tighness. When my bike is at low idle i hear clunking in the engine near this area.

-George

[sharpy]

part

That dear sir is the cam chain tenshioner and if it is not working right there is a light ticking noise being made.

[Dark Jedi]

And if it isn't working long enough, you get a loud clunk and a squealing rear tire from a locked valve seizing the engine....

[oldschoolGS]

In your manual in the engine assembly/disassembly section it outlines the specifics on how to install/check operation of this part. It is not included in the maintence section as the tensioner is supposed to be maintence free. It used a spring to force pressure on the cam chain to remove slack as the chain ages/streaches. A manual adjuster is better as it uses a threaded rod to apply pressure instead of a spring and will not allow any slack or play. They are available aftermarket for about $75. If the tensioner fails, the motor will jump time and you will bend valves and wreck other pieces/parts. Good Luck, ed
1983 GS750ED
2001 TL1000S (for sale)