primary chain
I usually set mine up cold and check it later hot, just to see the difference.
I have been told reliably that the primary chains are unlikely to wear out, partly because they run in oil. I suppose an abused one would need to be replaced. If it will take the adjustment i expect that it is good.
I have been told reliably that the primary chains are unlikely to wear out, partly because they run in oil. I suppose an abused one would need to be replaced. If it will take the adjustment i expect that it is good.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 5,064
Likes: 1,003
primary chain cold is 5/8 to 7/8 inch slack and hot is 3/8 to 5/8 inches slack. i check mine cold. there is an adjustment in the primary to take up the slack and i have yet to run out of adjustment. i find a lot of play comes from the nylon shoe wearing out. i have heard of a hydraulic adjuster that will do away with the shoe but i have never really persued the idea. i believe i have changed three shoes in 150 k miles so is it really worth the hydraulics? can they break? never say never!! i have seen so really bad chains due to poor maintenance. a couple of signs to look for is the teeth becoming sharp and the rollers on the links starting to crack. same goes for the rear chain.
I lift the top row up with a screwdriver or wrench or whatever, and estimate the amount of movement. Some guys use a 1/2" open end wrench to measure. Since the chain is a little less then 1/2" thick i judge it to be OK when hot if the bottom goes up just past where the top was.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
