checking timing chain slack

maylar · Aug 10, 2017

Short of removing the timing cover on a pre-MK3 Commando, is there a quick & simple way to get a warm fuzzy that chain slack is OK? I'm thinking like putting a wrench on the crankshaft nut and seeing how many degrees of movement it takes before the ignition rotor moves. Is that logical?

madass140 · Aug 10, 2017

the advance/retard cam has its own amount of slack/slop so, on the retaining bolt would be better. keep in mind that these chains seem to have an inherent tight spot so your readings may change . Its worth a try but not sure if its a good method . post your results

olympus · Aug 10, 2017

Take off the inlet & exhaust valve covers. turn over the motor until valve overlap at TDC.. if you have a dial gauge mount this as well
Rock the crank to & fro to see if there's any lag....
This is a very very rough guide, so removing the cover is the only real accurate way of doing it.

Malc

madass140 · Aug 10, 2017

maylar · Aug 11, 2017

olympus said:
Take off the inlet & exhaust valve covers. turn over the motor until valve overlap at TDC.. if you have a dial gauge mount this as well
Rock the crank to & fro to see if there's any lag....
This is a very very rough guide, so removing the cover is the only real accurate way of doing it.

Malc

OK, so basically that's watching for valve train movement while rocking the crankshaft. Anybody wager a guess how much lag there would be on a healthy motor?

I replaced the timing chain and tensioner some 7 years ago and haven't revisited the adjustment. I'm trying to convince myself it's not necessary...

checking timing chain slack

maylar

madass140

olympus

madass140

maylar

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