How do you check the CCT cam chain tensioners on a VF500?

I'm getting ready to pull the cam's and check my valve drive train (springs, rockers, valves, adjust valves) and I wondered how to check the cam chain tensioners. Mine appear to be working But, When I look down from the top on the rear head the tensioner seems to be at the end of travel.

 

From the '84 FSM:



Also,,,be on the lookout for wear (notching) here:

 

Thank You Invisible. That looks like great information. I was hoping to check the tensioner without pulling it out?? Maybe I should pull it out and check over everything?

 

How many miles are on this engine?

If you are pulling the cam caps the tensioners are only one step further,,,

(source '84 FSM)

 

If the cams are coming out then the tensioners are easy-peasy. Basically four more bolts and you're done. Make sure you mark your chains and sprockets for easy reinstallation. I usually use whiteout for this.

-Jake

 

Yep. Four more bolts, lift up the assembly, carefully remove the clip (don't drop it in there), washer and pin, just like the last page IC posted above. You also have to be cautious to avoid letting the chain fall in too deep and getting jammed in.

The tougher part is taking the tension out of the tensioner and locking it in that position with a piece of wire of a cotter pin. You need to do that before reassembly which is the reverse of removal. They are kinda awkward, unless you have a helper to put the pin in while you hold the tension with the holes aligned. Don't forget to remove the wire or pin after you get the cams back in place, aligned and semi-torqued down!

 

Thank You everyone. Great information on the CCT. I have the Honda manual and I think I will copy the pages and Take my time. I have my dad helping me and He's very mechanical. Michael thanks for the details on putting it back in. I will take a look and see if I can find anything wrong with the tensioners. The bike has 10,000 miles. If the tensioners appear good should I install new ones from honda? Or reinstall the used tensioners?

 

At 10k on the clock I don't think you are going to find much wear. You should be in good shape.

Remember to set the valve lash to .13mm using the two feeler gauge method.

Let us know you make out.

 

so there is no adjustment on the chain tension its self? its just tensions on its own?