Cam chain/gasket removal

How do i know if i should replace the cam chain? It looks good but what do I know! Any way I can tell the condition of the chain? I dont want to have to crack the bottom case. Also ideas on gasket removal? Sanding/not sanding/3m roloc pad/sprays(help)?

You Have too have the top end off and measure the links. Some bikes like mine require 6lbs of force on the chain while measuring

Take a look in your Kawasaki Service Manual. It shows how to measure the cam chain to see if it is within the service limits. Ed

WHATS a Kawasaki Service Manual

3m roloc (or Harbor Freight knock off) with WD-40 to remove the gasket. But only the green, maybe red (if I remember the red is the next coarse pad). Still need to watch out that you don't damage the gasket mating surface. I wouldn't user sand paper myself.

Is there a difference in cam chains for J and B4? Service limit is 128.9 for 20 link chain.

as for gasket removal, I use a razor to get most of the big stuff off. then I use an aluminum wire grinder on a dremel. Just got to be really careful not to dig into the surface of the metal. Works really good on old, super stuck head gasket material.

What makes you think you need a new chain?

the fact that I have 44,000 miles and I have the case open now. Id hate to rebuild and then in 5,000 miles need to break the engine down again. Though it looks good and never had any noises.

I have the yellow ROLOC and its not doing anything.

Not sure how coarse the yellow one is compared to red or green, But you first have to get the big stuff off. I used a plexiglass tool with a sharpend edge (didn't want to dig into my mating surface). Then you spray the remaining gasket with WD-40, so it is absorbed and kind of swells. Hit it again with the scraper afterward. Then the hard part is the residue that's left. That is where the roloc/scotch brite comes in. Again, use WD-40 and let it sit a few minutes during this stage as well. It softens the gasket sothe scotch brite won't just slip over it but bit into it.

If you haven't already done so, get a service manual for your bike. It has service limits and all sorts of needed info. If you can get the cam chain out do the droop test. Hold the chain flat in the air and then let one end go. If it droops like string, yeah you need a new one. The manual will tell you specifics but you get the idea. It will be the most used tool in your toolbox when it comes to your bike.