I changed primary and trans fluid a couple of days ago, and I couldn't help but notice that the compensator had some dings on it...how can something like that happen?

The bike has been wrecked twice, so I'm guessing that has a lot to with it. Should I change it? [the compensator of course, not the bike, haha] The primary does have this noise, but that's probably because the primary tensioner is wearing out and needs to be replaced soon.

 

Looks like someone pried on it.

 

Exactly! Probably pried with a skinny steel bar before loosening the tensioner bolt.

 

No its pinched ( a little sloppy pinched too apparently,) to secure the springs inside the cap from falling out. They all look that way in some degree or the other.

 

Oh, I see. Thanks for the observations! This was probably done by the guy who changed my drive belt last time it snapped. Good call.

 

Sounds about right with the crimps. If it isn't too late why not put in a Hayden adjuster? I installed one on my 02 in July of 2005 and no problems in fact quieter shifts once everything warms up. It keeps the right amount of tension on the chain all the time.

 

Those look interesting. Thanks for the tip!