Cam chain tensioner rumor
Road Master
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 774
Likes: 21
From: Florida
I also read that 06 Dynas and '07 Twin Cams have hydraulic tensioners. I have a factory service manual. The pictures show the tensioner and shoes with spring tension. So how is this hydraulic? I don't believe everything I read on Wikipedia
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 11,615
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From: Baton Rouge, LA
Failures of the earlier tensioners seemed to be quality-control related, as I've seen some go out as early as 20k and others lasting 70k or more. Also, the brand of type of oil used doesn't seem to be a factor either.
Last edited by iclick; Aug 14, 2008 at 09:08 AM.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 2,306
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From: Everywhere
The tensioners in the TC88 engine apply 35PSI pressure on the chain. For TC96, only 15PSI of pressure - that along with the other changes made, make for a lot longer service interval.
My TC88 tensioners were replaced when I did Cams at 20,000 miles. Then at 54,000 miles they were replaced but were barely worn. if you use a good synthetic oil, they will last longer.
My TC88 tensioners were replaced when I did Cams at 20,000 miles. Then at 54,000 miles they were replaced but were barely worn. if you use a good synthetic oil, they will last longer.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2006
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Not true. I have seen plenty of tensioners outta synthetic oiled bikes that were well worn at lower miles. On the opposite side of the coin, my tensioners looked great at 52k miles and I use dino. There is no rhyme or reason for tensioner wear. It's a crapshoot.
Road Master
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 1,200
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From:
Yep, crapshoot. Put in gear drive at 22k miles - had like 0.050 wear - used Mobile 1 Syn since 1K miles. Can't even tell the gear drive there - in fact, want to pull off the cam cover to make sure everything okay - i.e. working too good. I better knock on wood somewhere.
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 10,675
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From: Billings,Mt.
I think most of the wear is because the side of the chain that rubs on the pads is rough due to the characteristics of metal stamping.This why some people polish the chain when reinstalling.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2006
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From: Lenexa, KS (KC)
I'm a mechanical engineer, and I've got to tell you there's no rhyme or reason why some wear out faster than others. Could be that some springs are more stiff than others, but how would you know? So, either check them or replace them with geared cams. like several of us have. Here's pics of mine when I replaced them with 26G's.