Would it be normal if at 50 k miles for the chain cam tensioner to be weary? I had the SE 103 with 255 cams put on at maybe 30k and it is fun, but since I got the power vision, 1 year after the build, I started hearing this metallic rattle clanking noise if I blip the throttle too abruptly at idle. The bike runs strong and smooth the rest of the time. I know somebody is going to say " don't blip the throttle too abruptly" !! LOL
OK so the timing cover, aka inspection cover if I remove that will I be able to tell if the chain is a little loose? Do I have to drop the oil just to look at the chain? Given that I will need a new gasket for that.

Are there 1 or 2 chain tensioners there? It is the stock set up. I'd really hate for that chain to snap and bend the **** (oops0 out of everything inside my motor.

And is an easy install? I have a manual , but it doesn't say how to get that piece out ( unless it does and I missed it) From the pics in the manual it looks like take off 2 bolts remove and replace with the new. Boy I hope it is that easy for once!

 

You can't tell much on the hydro bikes because the tensioners don't tension unless the motor is running because the oil pump provides the hydraulic element to their function.

There are 2 tensioners and the rear one is hard to see without a mechanics mirror.

You will lose a half pint of oil when you pull the cover.

Big cams give more mechaincal noise (tappet rattle) but at your mileage you shoul be replacing the lifters in any case and they might be causing the noise.

Verdict: Pull it apart to do the lifters and check the cam gear while you are in there.

Look for loose sprocket bolts or worn out tensioner pads when you are in there.

 

There are 2 tentioners. You really cant see the inboard one witout removing the cambox.

I took my '06 FXDI in for a tentioner replacement at about 80k Mi. as a preventive measure and the inboard tentioner was about half gone. But most of my riding is at freeway speeds. A lot depends on how "Hard" you ride; If you're "hammerin' the gears....a lot of stop and go driving, then I sure they will wear quicker. My chains had no streach to them at all.

Hope this helps...

Best wishes Tim....(HT)

 

Thanks guys, i'm sure glad I asked before jumping in!