Author Topic: Automatic cam chain tensioner (Read 3382 times)

Erikkt · « **on:** May 25, 2006, 09:20:34 AM »

I've heard there can be problems with the autmatic tensioner on most suzuki fours. How would I know that I have a problem with it?

Herr Tod · « **Reply #1 on:** May 25, 2006, 01:15:50 PM »

You would hear a terrible rattle below 4000 RPM. I then took mine apart and the spring was broken, so i cut off a bit, made a new bend in it and it was good to go again.

Erikkt · « **Reply #2 on:** May 25, 2006, 01:19:35 PM »

Ok, so there's no chance of not knowing there's a problem?

stormi · « **Reply #3 on:** May 25, 2006, 01:34:33 PM »

Define " problem"?

I've heard they get "sticky" periodically and stop doing their job. One way you would know that is the cam chain would start to become noisy, as though it's stretched beyond the servicable limit. Then if you popped the valve cover, and measured the chain, it would be in spec, but loose.

I suspect that there would be a loss of power to go with as well.

As I recall, there's a check in the service manual for it. Try under maintenance if it's not in the engine section. We checked this as a prelude to going into the engine on Dita.

There's info here: http://forums.banditalley.net/viewtopic.php?t=956&highlight=tensioner

Erikkt · « **Reply #4 on:** May 25, 2006, 04:17:26 PM »

Ok, thanks!

JackBlack · « **Reply #5 on:** May 29, 2006, 07:02:46 PM »

Sorry about the delayed response, I've just had a problem with my tensioner, well still do. It got a bit sticky, took it out, wiggled it about a bit and put it back. It was absolutely perfect but the noise has started to come back, I'm gonna take it out and completely take it apart.
You can really hear the noise, it was about the 5k - 6.5k rpm range on mine and it sounds horrible.