problem installing cam chain

[LittleRock]

I bought a new cam chain and master link from Ohio Cycle, removed a link to be replaced by the master link, compared it to <br />the original chain, and they are the same length. Yet when I try to install it, I come up one tooth short on the cam gear so my master link will not reach! Is there a trick or what am I missing. Thanks for all help, I am stuck. Terry

[LOUD MOUSE]

Did you remove the cam chain tensioner? If you did I recommend you use a thin screwdriver to lift the chain onto the proper sprocket tooth. .............LM

[prima5star]

I just spent a lot of time figuring out the cam chain. It doesn't really fit well until everything is tightened down, you may want to tighten down a few of the head bolts with some washers in place of the engine top to compress everything. The chain tensioner has to be removed as earlier stated. I found that the mark on the cam didn't want to line up as specified in the manual to the mark on the stator before I got everything tight. When my mark didn't want to line up I err'd on the side toward the exhaust and the tensioner brought it together in the right place. <br /><br />My bike runs great now, the top end swap was a success!

[LOUD MOUSE]

You may want to pay special attention to the head temperature. ............LM

[LittleRock]

Thanks for the replies, I pried the chain on with a screwdriver and the help of 3 other hands to hold it all in place. I was surprised it worked and everything seems to be lined up per the manual. Thanks again. Terry