MadeThatMyself
XS650 Enthusiast
Hey guys! I'm new to the forum and rebuilding a 1981 XS650 Heritage Special. I've been a forum reader for a few months now and finally decided to become an active member.
My engine has 29k miles, ran when I bought it, but has super low compression, so I decided to tear the whole top end down and do some investigative diagnostic work. I am trying to determine whether or not I can reuse my cam chain and the rear tensioner. When I took it apart the tensioner was properly adjusted and the chain seemed to be in decent shape. After I removed the jugs, I noticed that there are some small grooves in the rear tensioner face where the chain rides, but nothing I would describe as excessive.
I am planning to replace the front cam chain guide either way, but how do you determine if there is too much wear on the rear tensioner guide? Is there a method to evaluating the chain as well? I most likely need over sized pistons/rings and a bore/hone based on the look of the jugs, so I am trying to keep my costs down in other areas that may not need new parts. At the same time, I would prefer not to open the engine back up in 3 months.
Thanks for reading!
My engine has 29k miles, ran when I bought it, but has super low compression, so I decided to tear the whole top end down and do some investigative diagnostic work. I am trying to determine whether or not I can reuse my cam chain and the rear tensioner. When I took it apart the tensioner was properly adjusted and the chain seemed to be in decent shape. After I removed the jugs, I noticed that there are some small grooves in the rear tensioner face where the chain rides, but nothing I would describe as excessive.
I am planning to replace the front cam chain guide either way, but how do you determine if there is too much wear on the rear tensioner guide? Is there a method to evaluating the chain as well? I most likely need over sized pistons/rings and a bore/hone based on the look of the jugs, so I am trying to keep my costs down in other areas that may not need new parts. At the same time, I would prefer not to open the engine back up in 3 months.
Thanks for reading!