Cam chain tensioner?
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3rd Gear
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 7
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From: Mobile, AL
Cam chain tensioner?
I am new here and keep seeing everyone recommending doing a cam chain tensioner conversion. I have a 99 Dyna Low Rider, with 13,000 miles. The previous owner kept meticulous care of it and it is like new. Is this something I really have to worry about, and if so what mileage do they generally fail?
Tourer
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 403
Likes: 1
From: Connecticut
There is no specific failure mileage. Some go prematurely, some never go. I changed mine out at 24,000 miles and old ones showed signs of normal wear, but were not shot yet. Others may see complete failure at a similar mileage. Here are pictures of mine.
You have some time yet. I would check them at around 20,000 just to see where you stand.
You have some time yet. I would check them at around 20,000 just to see where you stand.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 2,166
Likes: 4
From: la
From what I've read on the tech section the second set of tensioners last longer because the chain gets polished on the first set, they have been known to get eaten up with wear but at 13,000 they "should" still be good. Ride it for a while and let the bug get you, then you can do the cams while you're at it.
Posted this a few months ago over here: TC88 Cam Chain Tensioner Inspection....just in time!!
Thanks for serving and come home safe, tvwillcutt
Got 35.700 miles on my 2003 FXD and had the cam chain tensioners inspected and replaced.
IMO just in time............
Both show signs of wear; the secondary (inner) tensioner even lost a piece and got "eating" marks on the metal (see arrow) already.
Had them replaced by my indy as well as the front (ball) and rear camshaft (roller) bearings. The the inner cam bearing has been replaced by a JIMS 9198k needle bearing.
IMO just in time............
Both show signs of wear; the secondary (inner) tensioner even lost a piece and got "eating" marks on the metal (see arrow) already.
Had them replaced by my indy as well as the front (ball) and rear camshaft (roller) bearings. The the inner cam bearing has been replaced by a JIMS 9198k needle bearing.
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Intermediate
Joined: Sep 2010
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Average 35K life
2002 FXD 41K original owner replaced tensioners at 38K for no special reason. They were about 1/3 worn, replaced them and cams were a little worn so went with 203's. Always worried about tensioner issues discussed alot on HTT for the first five years they came out thinking about going gear drive but never did. Now with a new 2010 FXDBi no more worries. Always worth a check by taking the cam case cover off and have an indy give an recommend.
Mr. B
Mr. B
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Joined: Jan 2007
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From: along the shore of Mishigami
Ya know, if I was going to be away from the bike for a while. Why not not put a 95" kit in it with some mild cams and the improved cam chain shoes and cam chain support plate. A lot of $$$ but the thing would be bullet proof and strong to run when you get home. Thanks for your service, stay safe and hurry home.