Cam chain help!

Ok, so I've got my 77 KZ1000 motor torn down getting it ready for rebuild and I can't figure out how to measure the cam chain for wear. My Clymer manual says to measure 20 links with the chain pulled tight. When I count 20 pins, do I start measuring the first pin as number 1 and finish on number 20, or do I start with 0 and finish with number 20??

Mr. Kawasaki says 'first pin is number one' (KHI shop manual 99931-540-03). Service limit is 157.8mm

start on 1 and measure to 21 that is how you get 20 pins if yo u measure from1 to 20 your only measuring 19 pins. but if you the cases apart already, just replace it and it will be one less thing to worry about. any time i have cases apart i always replace the cam chain. no brainer i don't even think about it.

timebomb33 wrote:

start on 1 and measure to 21 that is how you get 20 pins if yo u measure from1 to 20 your only measuring 19 pins. but if you the cases apart already, just replace it and it will be one less thing to worry about. any time i have cases apart i always replace the cam chain. no brainer i don't even think about it.

If you go cheap, you will weep!

listen to timebomb33...

replace... removing and re-installing the crank is easy!



Good luck n' cheers.

No doubt TB and Tekie... I'm with ya on that one, replace it....

Brings up a thought... Ford, in your build, you throwing in higher compression or larger pistons, performance cams, head valve, P&P.... With the money and time you're putting into her, why count on or pout faith into a 30 year old chain for what, an additional $120....

Seriously, save yourself the head ache or at least in worrying about it. Just replace the chain and be done with it....

Or just install the wiring MOD for it fixes every damn thing here..... :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: Sorry, couldn't resist... OMR will be good now, yeah right! :whistle:

Alright, alright, I'll change the damn chain! There, are you guys happy?! But, I'm not splitting the cases and you can't make me! I guess I'll order the Tsubaki (sp?) heavy duty chain. Geez, why do these cam chain components have to be so expensive?!

Thanks again for your advice. I really do appreciate it!

split the freaking cases and do it right it doesn't take that much time extra and it also a good chance to inspect your trans and shifting mechanisium and shift drum. plus you can also check out your oil pump and get the cases really clean inside and out. what i'm trying to say is please dont use a cam chain with a masterlink only bad things can come of that.

Uh Ford... you do realize these cam chains are usually endless.... :blush: Sorry bud but you'll have to split her open but.... good news is cam chains aren't that overly expensive and for what they do in your engine, worth every dime....

APE: Tsubaki Heavy Duty Endless
kzzone.com/sprockets.html

Z1 has has Tsubaki timing chains with rivot master links reasonably priced (<$50) but never have used one of them... Save you from splitting her open...

www.z1enterprises.com/catalog.aspx?pid=KZ900-A4-1976-EN0

Some of the more experienced others may be able to add some insight to these type chains....

Z1 has a link style chain for $44. I will probably buy that one.

Whatever you do with the cam chain...
I have used the masterlink chains before many times (not on my stuff), and have only heard of one failing under serious stress. Big overbored turbo machine. Now scrap.

Totally your call. If your not making a wheel peeler of a machine, you should be ok.

Certainly, make sure to pull your oil pump and spec it.
Clean that sucker out real good...