and was told that i should ask if the cam chain tensioner had been replaced. My question is, what should i look/listen for to see/hear if it is bad or going bad? Will it run or idle different????? The owner (2nd.) doesn't know if it has been.

Thanks

 

Only way to know is to open the cam chest and visual inspection.

If it is a newer TC 96" engine or 103 if will have the Hyd tensioners and its not a problem until 75,000 miles or more for maintaince.

If its an older 88" anything after 20,000 could need replacing. its not a big job and if you like the bike should not be the deal breaker

 

00-06 can have tensioner issues. 07 and up have the new hydraulic style tensioners.