Adjusting chain?

Question

When you measure chain slack does that include the width of the chain link too? or just from the top of the link to the bottom of the link? Also how important is it that the rear wheel be perfectly aligned... can I just eyeball it with the marks or is it neccessary to measure?

Answer 1

if you are dealing with a dirt bike, eye balling the marks will work fine, remember that the chain is at its tightest point when the suspension is compressed, every bike i've had, has been a little different, i like to keep it a little on the loose side, but not so loose that i get chain slap on light accel

Answer 2

You need to get a service manual for your bike. The correct amount of chain slack will be indicated.

Chain slack can measured from the anywhere on the chain. If, say, you choose the lower edge of a link, simply measure the travel of that particular spot. What I do is stick a short piece of wood under the bike next to the chain centred between the sprockets. When I push the chain up, I make a mark under the link on the piece of wood. Then when I pull the chain down, I make a mark under the same link. The distance between the marks is the slack.

As for alignment of the rear wheel --- usually the marks on the swingarm are accurate enough for proper alignment. Just make sure you are on the same mark on each side. You can tell by sighting along the chain and sprocket if the alignment is off by a full mark though.

Alignment of the rear wheel is very important as the bike won't track properly if alignment is off by any appreciable amount. Also sprocket wear is increased with improper alignment.

Answer 3

At the spot where the slack should be checked -
Lift up the lower run of the chain.
Start your ruler at the center of a rivet (roller pin).
Hold the ruler and press the chain down.
The center of the rivet is the slack measurement.

It's not a rocket ship.
Wheel alignment being out a little will have no major effects.
The chain & sprockets will ware out a little faster, along with the tire.

Answer 4

every brand is different you need to do it to the specs for that bike example most newer harleys require the rider to be sitting on the bike or the belt wont adjust right also be warned that the chain doesnt wear even and is tighter in different areas than others and if you adjust it in a looser area then the bike's chain will be too tight and cause excessive wear on the chain and sprockets The chain is measured from one side only so if you do it from the top measure it to the top not the bottom side as for the alinement it is highy important to the handling of the bike and your safety if the alinement is off the bike rides dog-legged doesnt turn properly and can be easily high-sided (a sideways flip) get a manual and do it right man GL

Answer 5

You need about a half an inch of play on the slack side when you put tension on the other.. Also a good (not worn out) chain will not pull away when you grab it between your fingers and try to pull it away from the back of the sprocket. Be sure the axle is back equally, matching the marks on the swing arm on both sides.

Answer 6

It sounds to me as though the thickness of the wrench happens to be the precise volume of play they're finding for. you do no longer prefer a chain too tight or too loose, so it stands to reason that in case you may make it tight whilst some thing is wedged against the sproket, you need to then do away with it and anticipate some play in the tightness. others can be certain or deny. thank you for the forged theory.

Answer 7

If you are not sure go to a friendly dealer - they will show you - as far as alignment - try getting hold of a "Proficat" - its a laser tool designed for 100% accurate alignment every time.
Hope this helps buddy.
Alan