cam chain tensioner
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Joined: Aug 2008
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cam chain tensioner
My 08 UltraGlide has 15000 miles on it. I'm reading lots of post about problems with cam chain tensioners. I am not a mechanic. I put the bike in the shop every 5000 mile for a check-over. Is this something I need to be worried about? Like I need something else!
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 4,890
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From: MA
You should not have any problems. Your scoot has the newer upgraded hydraulic version of cam tensioners. The problems you are reading about concern the old style spring loaded tensioners used before '07.
Tourer
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 464
Likes: 1
From: NoCal
Had mine done on my T-sport under the ESP, dealer was even able to get the adjustable push rods installed as would have had the same amt of time or more into cutting and installing the non-adjustable ones to do the tensioner install.
I have talked to several techs at local hd shops and they say they are seeing 80000 miles with no "appreciable wear" with the new hydraulic system in the tc96. Not so with the older system in the 88
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6th Gear
Joined: Apr 2010
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I was at a local bike shop that does work on mostly Harleys. He scared the hell out of me telling me I should not be riding my 07 FLHTC (41,500 mi.) because I am rolling the dice with the cam chain tensioners. He pointed out three bikes that were in his shop due to the fact the tensioners gave out and the motors were blown. He recommended I change to the gear style. I don't have the money(he stated $2,150) to go to gears. Riding weather is almost here I don't want to trash the motor by riding it, is there anything else I can do at a more reasonable price? Can I check the wear on the tensioners myself, seems everyone just wants to make money off you after you buy your bike. Any help appreciated.
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For those like, mr. chavez that are concerned here is a link pretty much shows what to look for and at. Mr. c, gonna bet they just want to sell you the gears and the labor
http://www.harley-davidson-hangout.c...ner-check.html
Remember these are on an 88 with the spring tensioners not the new hydraulic like the 96 and later
http://www.harley-davidson-hangout.c...ner-check.html
Remember these are on an 88 with the spring tensioners not the new hydraulic like the 96 and later
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,336
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From: SW Minnesota
I was at a local bike shop that does work on mostly Harleys. He scared the hell out of me telling me I should not be riding my 07 FLHTC (41,500 mi.) because I am rolling the dice with the cam chain tensioners. He pointed out three bikes that were in his shop due to the fact the tensioners gave out and the motors were blown. He recommended I change to the gear style. I don't have the money(he stated $2,150) to go to gears. Riding weather is almost here I don't want to trash the motor by riding it, is there anything else I can do at a more reasonable price? Can I check the wear on the tensioners myself, seems everyone just wants to make money off you after you buy your bike. Any help appreciated.
BTW, my conversion to gear drives was a total of $1008, including labor at a Harley dealer.
Yes, you can check them yourself. They are still made out of plastic, which is subject to heat stress down in the cam chest. Get a dental mirror. I would check them as often as I would check the primary chain tensioner.