Anyone running a automatic primary chain tensioner? Any feed back. I was thinking of putting one on my bike. I'm thinking Hayden Enterprises may be out of business. they don't answer the phone, mailbox is full.
I found a tensioner from York. Not sure if they're any good. Any inputs. Thanks. Todd
Seems all the typical outlets are out of stock for all Hayden stuff so, I've no idea what's up with them. I bought some springs several years ago and never got a phone call answered but did get a call shortly after an email I'd sent. Another forum member in Sweden claims to have gotten a return email somewhat recently.
And, 99% of complaints about Hayden adjusters are from TC riders. But they are constantly having compensator/adjuster problems regardless of the manufacturer... My M6 is 150,000 miles old, original shoe, replaced the springs once - just because. Best money I ever spent for an aftermarket part on a bike.
Never had or known anyone with a York or other copycat unit. If you go that route, be sure you get the correct version for your year model. the ads are very vague and deceiving.
One last thing, there's nothing wrong with the factory adjuster if you remove the whole primary cover and do a correct adjustment, measuring at 4 or more spots and set it at the tight spot. (but I do love my M6)
Seems all the typical outlets are out of stock for all Hayden stuff so, I've no idea what's up with them. I bought some springs several years ago and never got a phone call answered but did get a call shortly after an email I'd sent. Another forum member in Sweden claims to have gotten a return email somewhat recently.
And, 99% of complaints about Hayden adjusters are from TC riders. But they are constantly having compensator/adjuster problems regardless of the manufacturer... My M6 is 150,000 miles old, original shoe, replaced the springs once - just because. Best money I ever spent for an aftermarket part on a bike.
Never had or known anyone with a York or other copycat unit. If you go that route, be sure you get the correct version for your year model. the ads are very vague and deceiving.
One last thing, there's nothing wrong with the factory adjuster if you remove the whole primary cover and do a correct adjustment, measuring at 4 or more spots and set it at the tight spot. (but I do love my M6)
Mine has performed just like yours. 110,000 miles, original everything. I bought an extra shoe with the original purchase but I don't think I'll ever need it.
Several weeks ago, I purchased a 96 Dyna FXDS Convertible. PO told me he had to rev the motor to find neutral. I ordered a hydraulic primary chain tensioner from J&P. When I opened up the primary, the chain was very loose. I installed my tensioner and did a clutch adjustment while I had it open. I have no issue finding neutral and the bike shifts fine. As far as longevity, I couldn't say. I used a Hayden on a twinkie in the mid 2000's. It seemed to work fine. I would also consider the HD automatic tensioner, but that's just me.
There is a thread from last year here automatic primary chain tensioner - Page 2 - Harley Davidson Forums (hdforums.com) the York tensioner has an additional feature from the Hayden, being the two roll pins diagonally positioned either side of the top bolt. this prevents the front or outer guide plate from cocking towards the clutch from the rotating force of the chain, I modified the Hayden on my bike similarly but I used solid pins. I also put a larger diameter pin in the back or inner guide plate that then sits in the factory serrated adjustment plate so there is no way mine can shift from the vertical position. read the tread and my post. If fitted correctly the Hayden and I assume the York tensioner (as I only have used the Hayden) work great. a lot of guys, me included swear by them.
obviously the image i used is from the thread (Its an Indian engine) as i didn't have any images of my modifications and installation.
Last edited by Ozzie John; 05-05-2023 at 08:11 PM.
No Way I will Ever use a Spring as a Chain Tensioner... Watch a Video sometime... watch the Slap!!!
They won't believe you, throw a timing light on a primary chain with a Hayden at 2000 RPM and watch the pretty sine wave. They we junk in the shovel days.
^^ I guess we should define "Problem"
I stand by..."Not for Me"
Edit; This is Wayyy out there,,,But I always use Extremes
Why does a Desmodromic Valve Train outperform regular Sprung valves???? If your answer is "it don't"...welp it dont matter, If it does...it is called Control
05-04-2023, 12:32 PM
Primary chain tensioner
