chain tensioner question
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Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 69
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From: ohio
chain tensioner question
I have an '07 FXSTC I just turned 40,000 miles and wondered if the chain tensioners should be replaced typically about now or should I just check on them. I dont ride aggressively and only 2 up about 40% of the time. I am beginning to feel alittle vibration in the motor at crusing speed but only when on throttle slightly or steadily crusing so i'm not sure if that would be timing tensioners or primary chain. Its difficult to tell from the feel. Bike runs great and I 'm not hearing any unusual noises. Any imput is appreciated.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2007
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From: TOAK western branch
Cam tensioners should be checked at 100k and same goes for the primary. IMO. I have about 135,000 on my 07 FXST. Other things that tend to go bad are the IPB and Main drive bearing. Front wheel bearings at about 30k. Your probably about due for a fuel filter and fork oil change too.
Last edited by soft 02; May 20, 2015 at 05:25 PM.
Road Warrior
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 1,593
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From: Mass/NH
With 40000 I would check them...you can check the back one with a dental mirror, the front one right out front, after you pull the cam cover.
I think the 07 has the older style, which apparently are a little more prone to issues...
The reason I would check them, is that some folks have had them fail and the bits go into your oil lines, no lube, bad results...with much less mileage...cheap insurance to avoid nuking your motor.
I had mine checked at 25 and they were ok. 45k now and they are being changed right now while I do my lifters (lifters are another one...after 25 k they can fail, needle bearings fall into motor...bad results...). Putting in zippers duel piston tensioners.
Good thing is, they are fairly cheap to change out.
Ride safe.
I think the 07 has the older style, which apparently are a little more prone to issues...
The reason I would check them, is that some folks have had them fail and the bits go into your oil lines, no lube, bad results...with much less mileage...cheap insurance to avoid nuking your motor.
I had mine checked at 25 and they were ok. 45k now and they are being changed right now while I do my lifters (lifters are another one...after 25 k they can fail, needle bearings fall into motor...bad results...). Putting in zippers duel piston tensioners.
Good thing is, they are fairly cheap to change out.
Ride safe.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 2,395
Likes: 153
From: Utah
I have seen this said many times but on an 88b I have never figured out how to do that... I can see the tensioner but NOT the surface that is in contact with the chain which is where the real story of wear would be. How do you do that?
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https://www.hdforums.com/forum/touri...88-03-rkc.html
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