Cam chain tensioner inspection
 

Hey guys, at what mileage are you inspecting cam chain tensioners?

Spring or hydro?

Spring

TODAY.

Replace outer and inner with Cyco shoes. These were "inspected" just prior to this. The OEM shoe material isn't safe to leave in given it's at least from 2006.

https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.hdf...b2669c0da4.jpg
https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.hdf...e575c3fd87.jpg

geez.....how many miles are on it?

Less than four thousand miles as I remember. This isn't the only one I've found with low miles and broken tensioner shoes. The older they are (chronologically, not miles) the more often it happens. It might not happen to you, nothing is a guarantee. But if I turn just one cam cover bolt on a 99-06 I'm changing the shoes to Cycos. Damn an "inspection".

https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.hdf...b5a1780382.jpg
Finish up your signature similar to mine with your bike, year and letters. Going to assume you have an older pre 2006 TC. How many miles? Long ago, you could have inspected it say at 20K and using your riding style and how high you spun it to see when your next inspection should be. However, after 10 years, hot oil harding says you need to change the shoes at 10 years along with inspection of the inner cam bearings. Do a manual oil pump check for pressure before tear down. If OK, don't worry about oil pump. However, replace the o-ring in the pump if a Softail.
My 2004 TCb still has original shoes at 50K. I ride it easy never exceeding 3500 rpm. Have checked them twice.

Back long ago, inspection if link pins hit, they were totaly worn out. That is how you would tell inner is done since it is hard to see back one.

I will say this, the new cell phone camera bore scopes with lights make it a lot easier to see the back tensioner (without removing the cam plate) than using the dental mirror method. Rip always has good info. In the end, it's a crap shoot but I've gotten some good wear out of the Cycos.

https://www.hdforums.com/forum/engin...20k-miles.html

I want to look at the tensioners but the cam cover is stuck on good. All bolts are removed and the cover won't budge. Any ideas?

Mine was chromed and stuck like crazy. I had an old (faux) timer cover that had been on my bike originally.. So I drilled a 3/8 hole, pulled mine and used it with my sliding hammer. A dead blow hammer works. Just keep knocking around and out..
That is why Harleys no longer mark their spot.