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Replace these tensioners??

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Old Oct 25, 2025 | 03:02 PM
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Default Replace these tensioners??

I opened up my 2001 RK Classic with 66K on it and this is the outer tensioner. I'm guessing the recommendation would be to replace them.
If it took 66K to get to this point, how many more miles would I get out of these? (I couldn't clearly see the inner one, but I understand they are usually more worn out)
My dilemma is that I don't have a heated garage to do the work in the cold months and it will be a slow process for me since it's the first time doing this job (I just bought the bike). I was going to put a new gasket and close it up to maybe get a little more riding in this season, then plan to do the tensioner replacement in the Spring but just looking for advice.
I'm also weighing up cutting out the push rods vs the standard removal of the top end to save some time ... but more expensive.
Pic attached of the outer tensioner.

 
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Old Oct 25, 2025 | 03:27 PM
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You button that up and do some more riding and you will likely have a lot more work to do in the spring
 
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Old Oct 25, 2025 | 03:31 PM
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Past time to do them.
 
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Old Oct 25, 2025 | 04:16 PM
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replace
 
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Old Oct 25, 2025 | 04:17 PM
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Remove the top. Reuse the PR. Rocker Box Breathers need love too at that miles. Good time to inspect all those moving parts.
 
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Old Oct 25, 2025 | 05:06 PM
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I assumed that was the right way to go.
Any recommendations on where to get a gasket and seal kit and which tensioners to use.
I was thinking of using Cyco pads; ??
 
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Old Oct 25, 2025 | 05:10 PM
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Cyco pads will be fine.
OEM or Cometic gaskets are what I would use.
 

Last edited by Tommy C; Oct 25, 2025 at 05:12 PM.
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Old Oct 25, 2025 | 07:18 PM
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Post a pic of the inner tensioner when you get to it; curious to see what it looks like
 
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Old Oct 25, 2025 | 07:36 PM
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Originally Posted by Addicted to Chaos
Post a pic of the inner tensioner when you get to it; curious to see what it looks like
Will do. Might be a while before I begin the process. I have to get tools and parts ordered and things organized.
I appreciate all the advice and help here.
 
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Old Oct 25, 2025 | 07:51 PM
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Originally Posted by Addicted to Chaos
Post a pic of the inner tensioner when you get to it; curious to see what it looks like
I tried my best to see the inner one using a light and dental mirror but couldn't get the right angle for everything to be able to see the surface of that tensioner.
 
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