Drive Chain adjust

[cribbs74]

Hello all,

I know I don't post much anymore, although I get on the forum pages almost every day. I have been riding my CL77 almost daily since 2007 after the mild restoration. I have accumulated almost 3000 around town miles since then It's been an incedibly reliable machine. A few hiccups along the way (and a few phone calls to LM) but for being 43 years old I can't complain

One thing that has been bothering me is my chain keeps coming out of adjustment after about 50 miles of riding. My adjusters are tight and my axle nut is torqued down to spec with a new cotter pin installed after each adjustment. So I am wondering if maybe I am adjusting the chain improperly Usually I adjust it with both wheels on the ground loosen the axle nut, tighten the adjusters to get the correct free play then lock everything back down. This last time I did it with both wheels off the ground to see if that makes a difference. Anyways just wanting to see how the adjustment is supposed to be made.

[davomoto]

Ron, I'm not sure of exact amount of freeplay chain should have, but if you're adjusting it too tight, it will strech the chain when the suspension compresses. This will also put a load on the transmission countershaft, and could break it. You could remove the lower shock bolts while on center stand, and swing the arm up to determine where the chain is at it's tightest point, and make sure it's not over tightened. If all seems OK, you may want to consider a higher quality chain. You should be able to do more than 50 miles between adjustments!

davomoto

[cribbs74]

Davo,

thanks for the reply. the chain is indeed stretching perhaps I need to do as you suggested. I rarely bottom out the suspension but, you make a good point. On the other hand the chain i purchased was a generic japanese job from retrobikes. It wasn't too expensive so it may be poor quality. Any suggestions on a good quality chain you have had sucess with? Thanks again.

[cbxmountainman]

In my estimation from my many experiences, there should be about 3/4" slack in the MIDDLE of the chain while on the centerstand. Cheap chain= many adjustments. I'd suggest that you spring the $$$ for a quality "O" ring chain and be done with it. Metalurgy has come a long way. Just keep it clean (washing it while off) in kerosene and soaking in a good gear oil (90 Wt); just a wipeing with WD-40 and relubing between washes. Make sure, if not an "O" ring, to get the lube INSIDE the rollers. If an "O" ring, just the rollers themselves will suffice as the rubber "O" rings seal it up well. Just My Humble Opinion. Hope this helps.

[davomoto]

O-ring chains are excellent, however, they will rob a bit of power. Look for a chain with a raally high tensile rating 7000 +. Check ebay, or try these guys. they'll also make you a sprocket with as many, or few , teeth as you want.

davomoto

http://www.sprocketspecialists.com/

[cribbs74]

Thanks for the tips gentlemen, I will pick up a new chain pronto. Here in South Texas we ride a little longer into the season so as soon as things cool down enough I will throw a new chain on the CL. I was planning on rebuilding the CL engine this winter but, I happened into new project bike so I will run the CL for another year as is. Thanks again.