If your cam chain tensioners on your TC88 have worn out, what was the mileage and how much did it cost to fix? My dealer says my RK with 27K needs 2 new cam tensioner assemblies 2 cam chains, 2 cam roller bearings and new gaskets. Parts and labor are $487.40. They didn't say anything about these cam chain tensioners wearing out when I had my 25K service six months ago.

 

Heres an additional question ...can the chains and bearings replacement be avoided if the tensioners are replaced soon enough?

 

The dealer told me that mine were worn so badly that the chains and bearings were damaged. What irks me is that they didn't mention cam chain tensioner problems when I had my 25K service. I can't believe that the tensioners went from good to bad in 2,000 miles. The problem is that the only way you know for sure is to pull the cam cover and inspect. The dealer charges $150 to do that. If you are close to 20K on your bike, you better have the inspection done.

 

What year bike? I heard they started polishing the chains on the 03 and up and have different tensioner material.

 

Time to put in gear drive. Think about it worries over , thats going to be the route i"m going when the time comes.

 

https://www.hdforums.com/m_388105/tm.htm

Yup, happened to me. Here is the link. Mine had 51K when it happened. Yes, you can avoid damage to the chains and bearings by checking/replacing the tensioners. All you have to do is open the cam chest and you can see one easily and the other with a little effort. If you catch it in time that 150 bucks will be well spent. The parts are about 60 bucks. Someone posted that they took the cam plate out and took it to the dealer to actually change the tensioner. That works to. Listen for a marked increase in clatter from your valve train and a drop in performance.
I had SE 204 cams and adjustable pushrods installed and 2 hours on the dyno and the bill was 946.00. The good news is that the extended warranty covered most of it. If you have the extended warranty and the dealer says it isn't covered, insist that they call CNA and atleast ask them.

 

I decided to upgrade to the S&S 510G cams at 27k and I am glad I did. The front tensioner did not look too bad, but the rear tensioner was pretty well worn and had some nice gouge marks.