Manual Cam Chain Tensioner

[TADracer]

Has anyone made or tried a manual cam chain tensioner like some of the drag racing guys use? I understand that a manual tensioner gives more positive support to the chain slide, is stronger and supposedly results in better cam timing, etc.

Anyone ever try one?

[randy]

Tad,

I would say that, in effect, we DO have a manual cam chain tensioner. Once set, it won't move unless the lock bolt is loosened. Although we do have a 'spring assist' to help set it.

[Dennyz]

I would be concerned that a manual tensioner could accelerate chain stretch.

[HobbyMan]

What is a manual tensioner? As far as I know, we do have a manual chain tensioner. My idea of an automatic tensioner would be something like an idler pulley on a car engine.

[TADracer]

Poor choice of words?

I guess I mean a tensioner that is not self adjusting. Ours use the spring to adjust the tension when the lock screw is released. I am talking about one where the adjustment is actually made by turning an adjustment screw and then locking that adjustment down.

I do not know if there is any advantage on a street bike but I was thinking that a good design might eliminate the ever-leaking button on the end of the adjuster.

[trbig]

a good design might eliminate the ever-leaking button on the end of the adjuster.

See... and I thought that was my oil level indicator. When it quit leaking, I knew it was time to add oil! lol..

I like the setup we have, I only wish the tensioner had been placed where the butt of it was in an upright position. I used some Yamabond around my button and that part doesn't leak, but even with a new gasket, I can't seem to get it to quit seeping around the bolt holes.

Like they said though, ours is pretty much a manual thing, it is just more idiot (Me) proof, Instead of relying on the operator to apply the proper torque to the chain. it does it for us. AND... as many of us that have stripped out the retaining screw and nut by over-torquing... this may be a VERY good thing! lol.

Tod

[81xsproject]

Mine was leaking before I traded cams. I didn't even have a new gasket. I just used RTV (grey) around the button and for a gasket replacement and no more leak.

Full manual tentionersleave a lot of room to screw things up.

[randy]

Since we're on the subject, thought I'd mention that my XS400 Special has an AUTOMATIC tensioner for the cam chain. i believe all of the xs400 motors are the same. Makes me wonder why Yammy would put an automatic one on a little engine and a manual one on the 1100 ?

[81xsproject]

tensionersleave (not a tensioner sleave, but that tensioners leave). Damn space bar