Chain Question

Simple but i could get a faster answer just asking instead of searching all over the forums. 1981 Maxim 550, Title says 82, frame says 81...

How many links in chain ? how many teeth on front and rear sprockets? And is O ring chains superior to non O rings chains ?

 

Chain 50HDS 104 links
Rear sprocket 45 teeth
Front sprocket 16 teeth.

 

104 links, 16T in the front, 45T in the rear. The "proper" rear sprocket for the Max has "swirly" cutouts to match the wheels, most aftermarket sprockets don't. (The original is no longer available.) Read chacal's chain article in his "XJ4Ever-Supporting Vendor" Parts Catalog thread.

The o-ring chain vs. standard chain debate rages on, it's a matter of opinion as to whether or not it's worth it. Properly cared for, regularly lubed and kept adjusted, a standard chain will last nearly as long as an o-ring chain. But you also need to keep an o-ring chain clean, lubed and adjusted.

Personally, myself, (and my first shaftie is in the garage not running yet I use standard chains and always have, for the last 40 some-odd years.

Some folks swear by o-ring chains.