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1981 maxim xj550 front sprocket question

Discussion in 'XJ Technical Chat' started by Hardy12000, May 22, 2017.

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  1. Hardy12000

    Hardy12000 New Member

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    Hello all,
    So I snapped a chain the other day, bout a real nice EK chain, and when I went to put the new one on I realized nothing was holding the front sprocket on. It has the retainer washer and bolts but that's it. I put like 600 miles on it like that, and I'm wondering what piece I'm missing, if any. I have to assume I am. The sprocket can just move on its own. Any Info would be appreciated. Thanks
     
  2. lostboy

    lostboy Well-Known Member

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    If you can pull the front sprocket off the retainer maybe bad. The retainer goes on the splines of the output shaft then turns about a 1/8 th of a turn in a grove to keep the sprocket on the shaft.
     
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  3. Hardy12000

    Hardy12000 New Member

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    Ok. The sprocket pulled right off with the retainer on it still. The last owner said he changed the sprockets. Is it possible he put it on upside down, or some other messed up way that it wouldn't grip, even if it is bolted onto the sprocket. The teeth on the retainer line up to the sprocket perfect when it's bolted on and it just slides on. How would I turn it?
     
    Last edited: May 22, 2017
  4. lostboy

    lostboy Well-Known Member

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    You need a new retainer. Click the upper right flashing icon to get the best parts and service you have ever witnessed.
     
  5. Xjrider92117

    Xjrider92117 Active Member

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    If you bought a nice new chain... Nice new sprockets would go well with it. ;) If they aren't already. Make sure the chain is properly adjusted as well.
     
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  6. Hardy12000

    Hardy12000 New Member

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    The sprockets were replaced not long ago. They look real good. And I have the chain at about 1.3-1.5 inches of slack. I thought it seemed loose. But from the info I got its good
     
  7. XJ550H

    XJ550H Well-Known Member Premium Member

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  8. Hardy12000

    Hardy12000 New Member

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    and those will fit my 81 550 maxim?

    Just have to be sure, it doesn't say anywhere on that page
     
  9. XJ550H

    XJ550H Well-Known Member Premium Member

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  10. XJ550H

    XJ550H Well-Known Member Premium Member

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    you can order on line or just go to dealership. my dealership does not charge shipping if he has to order the part, dealer may have one in stock
     
  11. Hardy12000

    Hardy12000 New Member

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    What category would it be under. There's no sprocket/chain section
     
  12. XJ550H

    XJ550H Well-Known Member Premium Member

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    do you have a factory repair manual or clymers repair manual?

    transmission
     
  13. Hardy12000

    Hardy12000 New Member

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    I do not
     
  14. XJ550H

    XJ550H Well-Known Member Premium Member

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    its just an kind of oval shaped part with mating splines that slide on the shaft turn to aling bolt holes and bolt on
     
  15. XJ550H

    XJ550H Well-Known Member Premium Member

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    ;)
     
    Last edited: May 22, 2017
  16. Hardy12000

    Hardy12000 New Member

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    I know what it is. I replaced the chain.

    I bought the new pieces
     
  17. Hardy12000

    Hardy12000 New Member

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    That was my issue. I didn't remove my bolts and retainer from the sprocket when I took it off. It just kinda slid right off.
     
  18. XJ550H

    XJ550H Well-Known Member Premium Member

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    yes I understand that the retainer is made to wear out instead of the shaft. I would stop riding it for now
    check your inbox at top of page
     
  19. Hardy12000

    Hardy12000 New Member

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    Definitely not riding. That was a pricey chain and I want it to last. Retainer and bolts ordered. Hopefully will have them in time for the weekend
     
  20. XJ550H

    XJ550H Well-Known Member Premium Member

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    did you get an oring or x ring chain or the standard chain
     

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