I usually use a 6" scale to do this. You might be able to get away with a good stiff tape measure. If you are getting 3/4" deflection cold then you are good.

 

I use the liot tool for checking the chain on 88's. Works great. I don't think he deals in them anymore, but there is the identical pattern one available.

 

This would be good info if there was a link to the one that is available.

 

stancotool@aol.com

 

I also use to use a 6" scale.I would attach it to the case using one of the cover screws.
Then I would use a 3/8' rachet with a 5/8" or so deep socket and use the socket end to push up on the chain while taking the reading from the rachet handle near the scale.

 

Even just say for S&G's that I am off a 1/16th to 1/8th. That still puts me within the alloted 5/8ths-7/8ths cold. I don't feel that I am off by that much, but anything could be possible.
I am looking at taking a 1in wide tape and placing it on on the floor facing up and open. I will then take 1flhtk4me idea and use a ratchet and socket and begin on a flat numer and see just how much lift I get. I will have my roadie do the same and see what he comes up with as soon as he gets off duty and a second.

All this noise may be comeing from just from adding the new cams,plate and chain. I sure just did not anticipate this kinda noise. I am **** about hearing a new noise and finding out what is causing it and then fixing it right away. Just how I am. Fix it while I can at my leisure instead of at night in the middle of a clusterf*&k!!!!

 

One of the best investments I've ever made on my bike was the M-6 Chain Tensioner. Either that, ( or the hydraulic upgrade,) and you'll never have to check that chain again. Last time I even looked at it was 25,000 miles ago when I replaced the stator. The adjusting shoe looks perfect. And I just turned 88,000 miles.

 

I just finally had time to get back into the bike and find out what was making that noise, I THINK!!!!!! (fingers crossed!!!!!!
I was going over it getting ready for a trip in the next few days and come to find the transmission shaft lever nut had come loose and was vibrating against the inside of my primary cover. I have a linkage cover on it and between the 2 I feel that may be the culprit. Been WAY too wet to ride so I won't get a chance till next week to find out for sure. But it sure looked like it may have been the problem for the metalic sound that was coming from that side and my partner said he thought it was primary leads me to believe this may be it!!!!!!!

 

You do NOT want to have a primary chain break, believe me!