How to loosen cam chain on XS500

[kawasaki kdx]

I would like to put the cam chain back together on my 1976 XS500 with the new link and can't get the chain to come together enough so I can put link in!

 

[Its been a long time]

Is the chain properly engaged on the lower sprocket? Adjuster is set to fully slack?

 

[Tiggertoo]

Wot he said, plus have you fitted a new gasket set? May need to torque down the head to flatten the gaskets, doesn't look to be too far out.

I had the same issue on a Honda Superdream several years ago, that new camchain was a bloody tight fit until it had done a few miles and head had been re-torqued a few times.

 

[Bob Wegman]

If I remember correctly(quite possible I don't) there is an adjuster on the rear side of the cylinder that can supply some slack.

 

[kawasaki kdx]

Is the chain properly engaged on the lower sprocket? Adjuster is set to fully slack?

Thank You, That might be the problem as I torqued head down and no change!!