1981 XV750 Cam Chain Replacement

The cam chains are apparently stretched. Anyone have any experience replacing these?

Thanks

 

Why do you think it is stretched? How many miles?

 

Did U mean XJ 750?

 

I have successfully replaced other cam chains, not the XV750. I definitely needed the riveting tool. Removed tensioner, partially removed old chain, cut chain, connected new chain roll engine over feeding new chain, installed master link.

 

Did it require a full engine removal? Also how did you install the new chain if you had to cut the old one to remove it?

 

Response is above. This forum's system is terrible...

 

No- XV750 is the Virago 750

 

That's what the mechanic told me. It's hard to tell how many miles are on it cause it was an engine rebuild.

 

What makes you think the chain is stretched? Doesnt run good, noisey?

 

Were the cam chain tensioner plungers fully extended so they cannot keep the chains tensioned any more?

 

That is what my mechanic told me. It's a 1981 Virago so the chains are just worn. The pins bend slightly, causing the chains to have more give so they slip. It has a hard time starting- makes this loud clacking sound almost like something is whacking against the bottom of the tank. It cut out on me while riding. Couldn't get it started again.

 

I'm sure if they were my mechanic would have told me. He was certain that the chains are old and stretched.

What would the symptoms be if the tensioners were extended?

 

Symptom can be a rattling noise from the engine if the tensioners are fully extended. Chain age doesn't matter chain wear matters. I always check the tensioner plungers to see if they are fully extended before l change a cam chain.

 

Hmmm Clacking not good. If tensioners are fully extended and working properly it means chain is worn out. Sounds like it jumped time. First you will have to make sure Valves arent bent with leak down test. I think manual chain adjusters are available, you might be able to get more tension out of them.