78 KZ650 B2/A Timing Issue

OK, this is an addendum to a post I had up on kzinfo. regarding a cam chain tensioner that needed replacement - but I can't seem to upload photo's - so I'll try here.

I've pulled the valve head cover, installed an APE cam chain tensioner, and looked for the timing marks on the cams, and they line right up (see photo's)

The only thing is that when I place them so that they are bang on, the timing indication for TDC is off by a few millimetres at the contact breaker.

What should I do here?

:iconstupid:

M

Did you remove the cams when you replaced the tensioner? On my 650 I cannot get everything perfect. I put number 1 cylinder at tdc and then put the exhaust cam in with the arrow level with the cylinder head. Then I count the number of links the manuel says and install the intake cam. The arrow on the intake cam is usually a little above the cylinder head. This is probably a result of wear.

A degree wheel will be the go to tool for dead on timing.

No I did not remove the cams, this is how I found them.

I mean they are spot on lined up!

But as you can see the TDC mark is a little behind.

I guess pulling the upper chain guide sprocket is next but I'd really like to hear the opinions of others. I'd assume after 30 something years, things flex.

Will I hurt my engine by running it at this point?

PS - what's a degree wheel?

These links are to info and suggestions contributed by RonKZ650:
www.kzrider.com/forum/2-engine/475461-re...ving-the-cams#475461
www.kzrider.com/forum/2-engine/249136-re...seating-issue#249136
www.kzrider.com/forum/2-engine/221680-revalve-clearance#221680
www.kzrider.com/forum/2-engine/146192-revalve-shims#146192
www.kzrider.com/forum/2-engine/21185-re6...lve-clearances#21185

And more from KZr's FILEBASE:
www.kzrider.com/filebase/doc_download/45...egreeing-for-zombies
www.kzrider.com/filebase/doc_download/203-degreewheel

Good Fortune!

Remember the crank gear is smaller than the cam gears, so what is off by that margin at the crank, is more at the cams. Always Line up the crank, then see about the cams. If it is off, move it one tooth, and recheck. It maybe farther off, but in the opposite direction. Your cam timing is retarded now as you have it, and moving 1 tooth may correct it, or it may make it advanced, so then you would replace the worn components to regain correct Factory setting. Or get/ make some slotted gears to adjust them, and it would be best to use the correct tools and set them up per degrees with a wheel and dial indicator.

Thanks!!!!

I wonder if this would explain idling challenges?

That being said, what items can I look forward to replacing?

M