1982 xj550 - cam chain timing guide question

Hey guys...
So, I've noticed a ratttling of my chain when starting out in 1st gear. I thought maybe it was because my chain is old and needed to be replaced. Before I buy a new chain, I did some research.
Question - is the 1982 xj550 supposed to have cam chain guides? My chain rides against the bar right behind the front sprocket, making an awful rattling sound. I can't find any specs or diagrams that show where chain guides are supposed to be, but I did find an item on eBay that includes some guides with a chain. Can anyone help me out? Also, is there supposed to be a tensioner somewhere? All I have is front and back sprockets, a chain guard, and a chain.... And a horrible rattling.

 

You are talking about 2 different chains, I believe. Cam chain and tensioner are internal bits. You cant get to it unless you split the engine cases.

 

Ahh... I see... I think its just the drive chain. I bought my bike without chain guides on it, I think that's my problem here.

 

There are not any chain guides for the 550 drive chain. The chain sag needs to be adjusted at the wheel. If you have no adjustment left, or the chain is binding, or if the sprockets are worn, you ned a new chain and sprocket.

 

drive chain adjustment


cam chain adjustment



cam chain guide

 

Right on! After tinkering and looking at some specs, I felt pretty dumb. Wheel is adjusted, chain isn't sagging anymore. Pretty easy fix. Chain has some play in between the links, is this a bad sign?

 

I've read a few things about a weird "knocking" sound coming from the engine. I heard it today - it happens at idle when the engine is still warming up. Is this normal, or could it be the cam chain tensioner needing adjusting? Thanks for the replies, learning as I go.

 

check your oil level the sound can be eliminated with just a little more oil fill to the top line in the sight (bike on centerstand level left to right)
it is made by the primary chain

edit
I do keep my idle at 1500 rpm as suggested below by Kmoe

 

That is the primary chain. As mentioned oil lvel helps quiet it, but raising the idle speed also helps. The primary chain tensioner on the 550 engine is hydraulic.

 

How would I know if I need to adjust the valve clearance and Cam tensioner? Any easy ways to sync carbs? Bike sounds like it's running well, but I'd like to know that it's running spot on. Probably a question for a different thread...

 

Thanks guys, you rock!

 

You know to adjust the valve clearnaces by checking the valve clearances. You know to check the valve clearances when it's been 5,000 miles since the last time that YOU checked the valve clearancs.

AIRHEAD VALVE ADJUSTMENT with Pics
AIRHEAD VALVE ADJUSTMENT Part 2: The Tool vs. ZipTie -w/pics

Carb synch is easy, but requires a manometer. Synch screws are between the carbs .Synch 1 to 2, then 3 to 4, then 1 and 2 to 3 and 4. 3 has no synch adjustment as it is the basline carb for setting idle sped.

Spot on sounds like a sewing machine. You should be able to hear the valves closing.

One bike = one thread so we can keep track of what's already been done when diagnosing problems.


More reading for you:

TECH TOPIC: The Real Costs of Maintenance

The Information Overload Hour

 

when checking valves look at the camchain when you turn motor . if you turn it backandforth a little you will see if there is slack in the cam chain.
good rule of thumb would be to adjust it when you check valves

manual states every 2500 miles or 6 months

 

Gatcha. Sorry, New to this forum / any forums. I'll start doing some work before I start blabbing.

 

please feel free to babble(?)
you should find some of my rambeling babbles . its all good