Hi Guys i just finished reading this thread and have ordered the part from honda, it arrived today it (14520MBW724) it looks to be a automatic tensioner. Does that matter?

 

honda only makes automatic ones, what do u mean?

 

sorry the guide i was looking at had a manual one, i was getting confused. thought i might have got the wrong part.

 

It's ok. Just didn't quite understand. When I do mine I'll go with another auto one

 

i would assume installing a auto one would be eaven easirt than a manual one?

 

Correct, the stock auto tensioner is about as easy as it gets. You just install, pull out the key and you're done.

 

Question: If a manual tensioner is sufficient, than why does the factory use an automatic tensioner?

 

from what ive heard its bc the chain needs different amounts of tension at different rpms and the auto one compensates whereas the manual does no compensation

 

similiar to why if a 5speed transmission is sufficient, then why do they make auto trannys?

For ease of use. I put the Honda auto tensioner in my bike because I wanted to put it in and forget it. I didn't want to worry about adjusting it wrong or having to adjust it if there was slack.

For as easy as it was to put it, I will gladly do it again in another 15k miles if it makes noise again.

 

I can completely understand the convenience factor, but it seems to me there may be more to it than just convenience. Just as vangill said, is it because the chain requires fluctuations in tension? If so, wouldn't a manual tensioner be harmful?