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Message started by stinger on 09/20/06 at 02:37:50

Title: cam chain life
Post by stinger on 09/20/06 at 02:37:50

I have 23,000 miles on my 02. Next spring Im going to take off on another journey somewhere in the US, racking up a ton of miles. Question is, how long can I expect out of my cam chain? How can i tell if mine is going bad? What sounds should I listen for? Should I even be worring about it? Rather fix it now then out in the middle of nowhere. thanks

Title: Re: cam chain life
Post by vroom1776 on 09/20/06 at 08:39:59

jeez, good work.

Most folks say they last anywhere from 15-20k miles. Mine, well, the tensioner, died at 13k. While I was on a road trip. Bike kept going, but wouldn't do over 65.

Noises? not quite sure, don't remember anything funny on mine... but I recall reading that it was a rattling noise from the engine. Maybe try a stethescope (sp?).

Title: Re: cam chain life
Post by Max_Morley on 09/20/06 at 10:40:49

Mine probably went about 25K before it started getting noisy. I like to thump mine so think that may have contributed to the early demise of the tensioner. In the late 90's one CA rider had his last until 90K M but he ran CA freeways in a 50 mile one way run each day. If it is clattery and the valves are adjusted correctly then listen with a stethoscope on the RH case area when the bike is idling. If it is noisy there probably the chain is slapping due to the tensioner aluminum housing being worn out of round by the plunger. If let go too long the spring could come out and not be a positive experience as it goes through the cam drive chain and gears, the primary drive gears to the clutch and one way clutch on the starter drive outside the clutch drum. Max

Title: Re: cam chain life
Post by Reelthing on 09/20/06 at 11:29:10

as well as broken cam chain almost always seems to take the valves and piston with it - if it we me I'd change it out as a PM thing

Title: Re: cam chain life
Post by thumperclone on 09/20/06 at 16:02:37

for what its worth the suzuki service manual only shows a service limit..you
"measure the 20-pitch[21 pins]length of chain"
the sevice limit is 128.9 mm 5.07"
if i was goin that deep into the engine id replace the chain...