MotoBuddha wrote on 03/08/11 at 16:30:35:kevin r. wrote on 03/07/11 at 16:25:55:I will look at the cam chain tensioner during my next oil change.
Or, instead of spending the money to try to get a bit more out of a chain that has stretched out of spec (and is putting the cam slightly out of proper timing in the process) I think it's better to get a new chain. Sure, it's a little more work to replace the chain than installing a modded tensioner, but the tensioner doesn't fix the underlying problem. What the modded tensioner is good for is keeping the plunger from popping out when you've neglected the chain for a long time and it has stretched too much. It won't keep the chain from stretching, though. So once the plunger reaches its limit yet the chain keeps stretching, it will eventually get long enough to start causing serious timing problems. It might even start skipping gear teeth, then it's, "Say hello to Senior Piston, Mr. Cam."
1st, why are you pushing him in a direction he hasn't yet even thought of? Checking the tensioner every so often is good practice.
2nd, most often when the plunger is about to fall out, the chain is still well within spec.
3rd, I have 2 bikes, 1 with 46k on it, another with 40k on it. Both standard stock chains from the factory as far as I know. Each are probably close to 3/4 of max allowed stretch. No timing issues. Sure they aren't spring chickens any more, but they still get me there.
4th, As long as the plunger holds the rear guide in place, there is enough tension on the chain to keep the teeth engaged with the sprockets. I tried best I could to pull the chain thru with the plunger collapsed, couldn't do it. In fact, if the chain gets to the point of tip to tip contact, it will jam on the case. Of course that was with a chain that was half stretched.