When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Install new cam chain before or after valve adjustment
I'm getting ready to adjust the valves on the '96 900RR I picked up, trying to decide if it's better to replace the cam chain before or after I adjust the valves. In looking at the below picture, it appears that something has been rattling/bouncing around inside the engine and gouged the casing.
Visible gouge marks in engine casing between the cam chain
I don't know the history of this bike, so I've ordered a new cam chain, cam chain tensioner (internal, not the external lifter) and cam chain guides. I'm making an assumption that a previous owner heard a rattle, and decided to bolt on the manual lifter hoping the noise would go away. So, a question for the guru's on here: replace cam chain before or after adjusting the valves? Not much room to get in and view the timing marks on the cam gears, but it's doable.
That's the direction I was leaning in, good to have a confirmation on that. With the engine in the bike, it's next to impossible to see the timing marks on the intake cam gear. Am I fine going off only the timing mark on the exhaust cam gear, or does someone have a trick to get a good visual on the intake cam gear? A small mirror perhaps?
I've found the location of the noise, but not 100% sure on the source as with visible inspection, cam chain and internal cam chain tensioner don't appear too bad. There are signs of something bouncing around in the head near the exhaust cam, most likely the cam chain as the inside of the valve cover is perfect, and obvious gouging down low near the timing rotor. I'll most likely drop the pan to see if there's something in there, and might change cam gears while I have it apart to rule those out.
New cam chain, tensioner and cam chain guide installed, time to check the valves once I make the time. Quick question for those who have done this before - I can't seem to get the EX timing mark to line up perfectly with the top of the head? If I move the chain one tooth on the gear, the EX mark is below the head surface. I've turned the engine over multiple times, and everything is aligned per Honda manual.
Install new cam chain before or after valve adjustment
