ATV Riders Forum > Sport ATV Model Information > Honda TRX 400EX & 400X ATV Info > how to tighten timing chain???
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trx400Rider
08-01-2011, 12:43 PM
hey guys a i need a quick answer! how do u tighten the timing chain so there isnt much slack???? please help
ish516
08-01-2011, 01:04 PM
There is a cam chain tensioner, you shouldn't have to adjust it.
If there is a bit of slack it sounds like it's time to either replace the chain or the tensioner or both.
tri5ron
08-01-2011, 01:15 PM
With a stock OEM tensioner, there is no adjustment.
It is spring loaded, and therefore automatically self adjusting the chain tension.
Yes, there ARE aftermarket manual adjusters,... but they are not very practical, and not highly recommended.
The stock OEM tensioner, is perfectly acceptable, and suitable for 99% of all 400ex's out there.
Your problem is most likely a stretched timing chain, which they are known for.
You need to replace the timing chain, (Preferably with a '02 crf450 timing chain).
It is also possible,...(but less likely),... that you could need to replace the tensioner too.
But again,... less likely, due to the chain has probably just stretched beyond the max range capabilities of the OEM tensioner.
If you do replace the chain,
it is highly advisable to replace the chain guides at the same time.
trx400Rider
08-02-2011, 11:13 PM
Well to be honest I recently replaced the timing chain with a 2006 model crf450 chain, new guides, and tensioner. put maybe 60 hours on it since. not hard hours either, and my chain is loose. it was tight as hell when I installed everything. so Im lost..
dxcody
08-02-2011, 11:37 PM
Originally posted by trx400Rider
Well to be honest I recently replaced the timing chain with a 2006 model crf450 chain, new guides, and tensioner.
put maybe 60 hours on it since. not hard hours either, and my chain is loose. it was tight as hell when I installed everything. so Im lost..
60 hours is quite a bit though
DnB_racing
08-03-2011, 06:07 AM
Originally posted by trx400Rider
Well to be honest I recently replaced the timing chain with a 2006 model crf450 chain, new guides, and tensioner. put maybe 60 hours on it since. not hard hours either, and my chain is loose. it was tight as hell when I installed everything. so Im lost.. it shouldn't have been (tight as hell) when new, did you release the tensioner before installing? with the adjuster installed properly its just snug not tight
CJM
08-03-2011, 05:44 PM
And how many hours are on the tensioner?
They do wear out, it does happen. Id replace it every 100 hours or so if it were me.
tri5ron
08-03-2011, 05:53 PM
This may or may not pertain, but I seem to recall that everyone has always suggested, when using a CRF450 chain, that it should be a '02 - '03 CRF450 chain.
He has said that he used a '06 CRF450 chain.
I don't know if they are the same from '02 to '06, and I suppose checking the part numbers for both years might answer that question,...
But just thought I'd throw that out there, just in case there IS a difference in the chains for the different years.
( I hope that makes sense, sometimes typing it out seems to make it more "corn-fuzzzin'") lol.
powerbomb400
08-03-2011, 05:56 PM
With our riding that would be once a year. It should last longer than that.
trx400Rider
08-03-2011, 07:55 PM
before the orginally timing chain finally gave I had around 400 hours.
When I replaced the timing chain with the crf450 chain I also replaced the guides and a new tensioner. I installed the tensioner then pulled that piece of plastic of that kept it retracted. the chain was pretty darn tight when I done that.
Its making a pretty bad tick, only when cold. but two days ago I replaced my valve cover gasket I also check the valves, just very slight adjustment was needed to be exact, so I put them in exact spec.
It cant be the valves. the timing chain is loose on the cam gear.
I guess I'll have to replace it all again? Also somebody on exriders told me to use the 2006 model crf450 chain. Is anybody having problems with the 2002 model stretching so soon?
CJM
08-03-2011, 08:26 PM
Before you go tearing everything apart, take the tensioner off-try and retract it with a small flathead screwdriver and see if it retracts quickly, gets stuck, etc.
I check the part numbers, everything seems the same, its the same number for 02 and 06. CRF450R.
You might not have assembled something right, you could have a bad tensioner, the valves were adjusted improperly or need to be readjusted. Or if it sounds noisy thats b/c they usually are on the xr/400ex. Mines quite noisy-but I do have a hotcam.
You replaced both guides, including the one where you must remove the clutch to do so? You totally tightened the tensioner down and then released it? The sprocket cam is on correctly and tight, cam was installed lobed DOWN, you didnt over torque the valve cover bolts, etc, etc, etc.
Double check everything.
DnB_racing
08-04-2011, 01:24 AM
Originally posted by trx400Rider
I also replaced the guides and a new tensioner. I installed the tensioner then pulled that piece of plastic of that kept it retracted. maybe you did the release right but it doesnt sound like it....the way to release the tensioner,
is by removing the end plug and turning the inside with a small flat head clockwise,not by pulling the plastic guide
the way to check if tensioner is bad, is with the tensioner removed from quad, try pushing the tension shaft into the tensioner,if you can move the tensioner with you hands its bad
and with it removed try releasing with a screwdriver, but from your description above, it sounds like you tried to release the tension by pulling on the guide,not releasing the tensioner as required..
the way you tried to adjust the tension tells me your tensioner is good, but you did it wrong
the reason the chain wore was improperly adjusted tension adjustment.
... and yes the 02-06 crf chains are the same
after running that tight for that long you probably also wore down the guide again,
it sounds like you dont have a service manual ...it gives all the info that would prevent these issues
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ATV Riders Forum > Sport ATV Model Information > Honda TRX 400EX & 400X ATV Info > Manual cam chain tensioner
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mad4106
10-12-2012, 03:11 AM
I was reading on another atv forum with a guy that had a 440 big bore and he sayed a manual cam chain tensioner is a must for a built 400 cause a stock cam chain tensioner can fail and mess us the motor is this true resulting in damage valves or worst is this true and do recommend me getting one before I put my bb kit on?
jman7290
10-12-2012, 04:59 AM
The problem with the manual tensioner, is that it is on you to adjust the tension.
How do you know when and how much tension to put on the chain? Sure if it makes noise tighten it up, but that may be to late, and like I said how do you know how much to tighten it? My cousin has a built 400 with a x6 cam and he was snapping even the heavy duty cam chains within a few rides. He got a Suzuki Z400 cam chain tensioner because it is a heaver duty tensioner and mounted it right up. The only thing that you have to do is grind out the opening a little bit to make sure that the little piston of the tensioner that puts pressure against the guide to put tension on the cam chain fits through the opening without rubbing against anything. He has been riding since last Fall with no problems so for. I would also get a timing chain for a 450R and put in your bike,, it is heavy duty also.
400man
10-12-2012, 08:49 AM
well this is the first ive heard of using a z400 tensioner, so the bolt holes line right up? might have to pick me a cheap used one up and see how good it fits,
BlasterEaten250
10-12-2012, 09:15 AM
My stock tensioner failed.
The Suzuki tensioners are also known to fail. If you are worried about it I'd recommend a manual one and just read up on how to adjust it right, then you won't have any problems.
CJM
10-12-2012, 09:21 AM
The stock ones dont fail very often. Infact every rebuild I have done (3 of them) I checked mine. Whatya know it was fine somehow.
My friend had his fail, were not sure why. he bought another one that was used and it failed. Replaced the cam chain and guides-no more failures.
Im convinced they will only fail if the chains bad.
BlasterEaten250
10-12-2012, 09:54 AM
Originally posted by CJM
Im convinced they will only fail if the chains bad. This could be, mine failed before I put the 450 chain in. Mine also had a LOT of hours on it.
dxcody
10-12-2012, 10:42 AM
Originally posted by CJM
The stock ones dont fail very often.
Infact every rebuild I have done (3 of them) I checked mine. Whatya know it was fine somehow.
My friend had his fail, were not sure why. he bought another one that was used and it failed. Replaced the cam chain and guides-no more failures.
Im convinced they will only fail if the chains bad.
On every 400ex I have never had one go out either. I have rebuilt/helped rebuild 2 of my friends (funny how everyones quad who isn't mine turns out fine, but mine always breaks...? anywho) and 2 of mine... Never had a tensioner go out!
in fact I have a good one still just laying in the garage.
I don't know what causes them to break or whatever but when I had my Z400 everyone told me, do the timing chain tensioner mod (whatever that is) and replace the timing chain... 400ex timing chains usually only stretch if you have your engine apart a lot, or many many hours it seems like to me..
jman7290
10-12-2012, 04:58 PM
Yes the bolt holes line right up.
Like I said he had at least 3 stock ones break on him in a matter of a few rides each, and has had no problem with the Z400 one for almost a year now. And yes he knows what he is doing, rode and worked on ATV's since they were invented, Tractor Trailer Mechanic by trade, builds Hot Rods from the ground up in his free time, builds modified dirt track cars from scratch that he races, even fabricates cromolly frames for 250R's, 400EX's, and 450R's for $1500 bucks. Some of you may have heard of him, Tommy Marshall of Wild Crowd Racing from Western PA.
jman7290
10-14-2012, 10:05 AM
I am not sure where Blastereaten250 got his info from because I just searched the net and the only thing that I found on the Suzuki tensioners is that they have a lot of spring tension and cause the cam chain to wear out on the Z400's fairly quickly. I also found that for $28.00 Alba makes a cam chain extension kit for the Z400 that gives you more riding time before you have to replace the cam chain.
It takes less than 10 minutes to install and has been proven for over 8 years now. Like I said its a heavier duty tensioner and works well on built engines. My cousin should get some sort of reconition for this fix on built up 400EX motors!
atvrider13
10-14-2012, 11:12 AM
I have personally seen 3 seperate 400exs cam chain tensioners fail causing big damage. I only use manual ones now
BlasterEaten250
10-14-2012, 11:18 AM
Originally posted by jman7290
I am not sure where Blastereaten250 got his info from because I just searched the net and the only thing that I found on the Suzuki tensioners is that they have a lot of spring tension and cause the cam chain to wear out on the Z400's fairly quickly. I also found that for $28.00 Alba makes a cam chain extension kit for the Z400 that gives you more riding time before you have to replace the cam chain. It takes less than 10 minutes to install and has been proven for over 8 years now.
Like I said its a heavier duty tensioner and works well on built engines. My cousin should get some sort of reconition for this fix on built up 400EX motors! z400 and drz forums. That is a common mod for those engines to upgrade to a manual tensioner.
jman7290
10-14-2012, 11:41 AM
Yes it is a common mod that people do to the Z400, but not because the tensioner fails. If you do more research, it is because the OEM tensioner has so much tension it wears out the cam chain prematurely. Also in the reading you will find that it is really hard to adjust the manual tensioner to the correct required position, and the reason that Alba came up with a cheap fix that will keep you riding more so you don't have to replace the cam chain so soon. Anyway it works good on a built 400EX motor, and who cares about Suzuki anyway?!!! I have another cousin that is a die hard Suzuki guy and he gives my other cousin hell for having to put a Suzuki part on a Honda to make it reliable!!! Hopefully this info helps some of you fellow EX guys out, I just feel its a better option than a manual tensioner and an insurance policy.
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Chain care (lubrication and tension) is one of the key elements of ATV maintenance. If the rider ignores this procedure, the component will begin to wear and sag, and the sprocket teeth will fail. This will all lead to serious problems and break the element. Therefore, the motorist needs to figure out how to pull the chain on the ATV.
Inspection of the unit is recommended every 2-4 weeks, depending on the operation of the equipment. It may seem like this is quite common, but ignoring the procedure can lead to serious problems. For example, if the chain breaks far from the garage, the rider will have to push the quad home. But this is a trifle, in comparison with the fact that if a component breaks, the crankcase may suffer or the axle may jam.
A critical problem for the chain is:
But how do you know when a chain needs to be tightened or replaced on an ATV? Everything is simple. The rider needs to grab one link of the chain in the region of the rear sprocket and pull it towards him. If it turned out to pull off more than 4-5 links, then the node needs service.
Even if you have bought a reliable ATV, it is recommended to service the component every 300-400 km. This will not only increase the life of the circuit, but also detect the problem in a timely manner.
Since the quad is used for off-road driving, dust, dirt and moisture are constantly deposited on its nodes. All this leads to increased wear of the elements.
By the way, experienced riders advise cleaning and lubricating the chain after each race.
First you need to find the right oil. In principle, even inexpensive lubricants can be used, but they will have to be applied more often. The oil marked "off-road" is best suited for an ATV. Such compounds are designed for off-road driving, and perfectly protect the assembly components from dirt and moisture.
Before putting the chain on the ATV, it must be completely free of dirt. However, for this it is highly recommended not to use aggressive chemicals, hard brushes, solvents or high pressure washing. All this can lead to damage to the rubber seals.
Cleaning can be done:
After the dirt has been removed, the chain must be thoroughly wiped with a soft cloth and dried. Only then can you start lubricating.
It is worth noting that it is recommended to apply oil on a warm chain.
But the removal of excess lubricant is carried out with the same soft brush.
ATV chain is recommended to be changed every 500 km. But what to do with an old part that is slightly worn or torn? You can make a spare wheel out of it, after shortening it by 1-2 links. Of course, this "modification" will increase the likelihood of its rupture, but in an emergency, such a spare tire will allow you to get home.
To shorten the chain:
Important: Remember that an old shorter chain will increase the wear on the sprockets.
To tension the chain, the vehicle must be parked on a level surface in neutral. The rider should then:
Some machines, most of them for children or low power, are equipped with special tensioning bolts. By twisting them, you can both weaken and tighten the chain.
Therefore, study the documentation for the ATV in advance.
06/16/2020 5167
Adjusting the chain on your vehicles is an important part of maintaining your vehicles. If you allow the chain to become too loose, it may fall during operation and become broken, which could damage other parts of the vehicle. But if you let the chain get too tight, it can fire up the vehicle's sprocket, stretch and break the chain. The process of tightening and loosening a vehicle chain requires only basic tools and can be done by just about anyone.
Contents
Under the hood:
How to set up a chain on an ATV
Pull the ATV to an open, accessible area and raise the rear of the vehicle onto a block.
Make sure all pressure is off the rear tires.
Use a crescent wrench to loosen the mounting bolt holding the axle bolt between the rear tires.
Starting with the left bar, loosen the mounting nut while holding the chain pinch bolt on the pivot arm in place with an end wrench.
Adjust the chain pinch bolt if necessary. Tighten the bolt carefully, as it is easy to pull and break. Feel the chain as you adjust the bolt and try to teach it, but still with a bit of slack. Then, once you have the bolt in place, hold it firmly with the end wrench and tighten the mounting nut with the other end wrench.
Look at the notch at the top of the square jig and complete the adjustment process on the other pivot arm by aligning it with the notch in the same way as on the other side. This is very important, as the axis should be as straight as possible.
Use the crescent wrench to re-tighten the eye bolt.
How to adjust the chain on a Harley motorcycle
Loosen the axle nuts on both sides of the rear wheel with an adjustable wrench. Do not remove the nuts from the axle.
Locate the chain adjusting bolts. On the right side of the Harley, the bolt is to the right of the nut axle. On the left side of the Harley, the bolt is located on the left side of the axle nut. Both bolts are perpendicular to the axle nut and both have a hex or hex head bolt. It depends on the Harley model you own.
Turn the adjuster on the left side of the motorcycle one full turn, then repeat the process on the right side. Always make sure each bolt turns the same amount to keep the rear wheel straight.
Check the chain tension by pushing down on the center of the chain. If you can push the chain down more than 1/2 inch, repeat step three until there is less than 1/2 inch play in the chain.
Tighten each axle nut with an adjustable wrench.
How to set up a chain on a Suzuki Z400
Park your Suzuki Z400 in a level, well-lit area such as a garage. Shift into neutral by moving the shift lever.
Slide a crescent wrench onto one of the nuts on the rear wheel of your Suzuki Z400. Loosen the clamp nut by turning the wrench counterclockwise. Repeat the procedure for all eye nuts and for the other rear wheel.
Loosen the left tire fixing nut with a socket wrench. Loosen the right tire fixing nut with a socket wrench.
Locate the Suzuki Z400 chain near the bottom rear of the quad. Locate the chain pinch bolt near the back of the chain. Turn the pinch bolt clockwise to tighten the chain. Rotate the chain from one to five full turns, depending on the desired tightness.
Tighten the fixing bolts of both wheels with a wrench.
Tighten the lug nuts on each wheel with a socket wrench.
socket wrench
sickle wrench
socket wrench
How to set up a chain on a scoop
Support the bike on its stand. Use a rear wheel stand that lifts the rear wheel slightly off the ground without blocking the rear axle bolt if possible.
Loosen the axle nuts on both sides of the rear wheel, but do not remove them.
Adjust the chain tension bolts on both sides of the swingarm. Turn each bolt counterclockwise to tighten it or clockwise to loosen it. Turn each bolt in half-turn increments, ensuring that each side rotates evenly.
Measure the chain slack between each turn of the chain tension bolts. Measure the chain slack at the bottom center of the chain, between the front and rear sprocket. This point should have no more than 1 inch of vertical play.
