Cam Chain Tensioners?

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Oct 20, 2021 | 04:31 PM

OLD 96

Thread Starter

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: Jan 2009

Posts: 5,149

Likes: 2,975

From: WACO

Cam Chain Tensioners?

Probably been asked before. Doh. Can early cam chain tensioners be converted to late model hydraulic tensioners? I think hydraulic tensioners were introduced in 2007. Or do you have to change the cam plate on the earlier models.? Thanks.

Oct 21, 2021 | 04:52 PM

dawg

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: Jun 2006

Posts: 28,520

Likes: 3,953

From: Vermont

You can convert the 99-06 spring tensioners to hydraulic with a kit. You have to change the plate and use conversion cams. You can’t just add the tensioners to the existing stock plate.

Oct 30, 2021 | 07:05 AM

csonni

Cruiser

Joined: Oct 2021

Posts: 130

Likes: 13

From: Goose Bay, Labrador

Quote:

Originally Posted by dawg

You can convert the 99-06 spring tensioners to hydraulic with a kit. You have to change the plate and use conversion cams. You can’t just add the tensioners to the existing stock plate.

I'm slowly checking into the Screamin' Eagle upgrade kit but there is no mention of replacing the cams. It's an expensive upgrade. I've only got 15,000 miles on mine and have not yet checked the tensioners. I suppose you can just change the tensioners themselves but they're bound to go eventually as well.

Oct 30, 2021 | 12:43 PM

djl

HDF Community Team

Joined: Jun 2006

Posts: 12,774

Likes: 2,606

From: san antonio

Quote:

Originally Posted by csonni

Not necessarily. Replace the OEM tensioners with CYCOs which are lasting much longer with no reported issues of failure. Just check them every 25K miles or so.