Cam chain replacement difficulty.

My project is coming along quicker then I anticipated. Thinking about tearing into the motor and replacing the cam chain. Not on my list of favorite things to do. I know you have to split the case but what would be the overall difficulty for this (and I think I know what I'm about to hear)

How many miles are on the engine? Have you checked the cam chain using the instructions in the Kawasaki Service Manual to see if it is within the service limits? Ed

If you do decide to split the cases and replace the chain ,make sure to check everything else while youre into it that far.
As long as the crank is out Id spend the money and have it checked out and weld the pins.

Remeber to get the crank out you have to pull the pistons off, which means a total tear down, jugs, head and cams off, engine covers off, everything.

Plan on a gasket set, the cam chain guide, any questionable rollers, hone the cylinders and new circlips on the pistons

If you must change the cam chain, I know there are chains available you can install and then rivet together the link. You split the old chain and connect the new one to it's end and use the old one to pull it through and around then link the new one together. Obviously an endless chain is preferred, but it could save a ton of work.

bountyhunter wrote: If you must change the cam chain, I know there are chains available you can install and then rivet together the link. You split the old chain and connect the new one to it's end and use the old one to pull it through and around then link the new one together. Obviously an endless chain is preferred, but it could save a ton of work.

I like you bounty lol

Z1 has the cam chains.

I can handle $40

I spent a bit of time looking into this recent and the last best research is ...no...do not buy the chain/link/ and breaker and rivit tool.....and go through a ton of work...because....it is not the way to go in the first place....not 100% convinced it cant be done stilll...but call Z1 ent and ask them...see what they say...they are the ones selling the link and chains...and tool...whats their opinion

A long time ago I bought a heavy duty cam chain. It came with a peen over master link. I pulled it through and peened the pins. It worked until I had the wreck. Just shy of ten years. The problem in doing this is, if it isn't done right or if the pins are damaged, the chain can break wasting the motor. Also if the chain is worn out, everything else is also. Think about it.
Steve

Why wouldn't it be a good idea? Master link, agreed bad idea. You do a drive chain the same way and it receives much more abuse than a cam chain in my opinion. Granted, if you do it wrong and it comes apart the consequences could be very expensive.

swest wrote: ........ Also if the chain is worn out, everything else is also. Think about it.
Steve

Agree! I would think if the chain is shot the guides or roller and idlers would be worn pretty badly. That's why I asked if the chain had been measured for wear and the mileage (but got no answer). Ed