Cam chain

[2001 trx400ex]

i am taking off my cylinder head and i was wondering how i should keep the cam chain from falling off. I am sending my head in for porting and polishing. What happens if the cam chain falls. I am also sending the cylinder in for boring to a 416.

[honda350r]

I use a small bungee cord! If the chain falls it is no big deal! It will not go into a hole and never return!

[Bill Fuller]

tie a rag around it (in a knot) or use a zip tie to hold it in place.

[2001 trx400ex]

will i have to split the case if i drop the chain.

[Bill Fuller]

No just don't roll the motor and don't pull on it to hard,use a pick to reach down in the motor and ease it out.

[L.Vegas400]

when you turn the eng to take out the 2nd sprocket bolt, keep tention on the chain, otherwise it will roll on to itself and may screw it up.

[F-16Guy]

Originally posted by honda350r
I use a small bungee cord! If the chain falls it is no big deal! It will not go into a hole and never return!
What he said. Get one of those mini bungees, they work perfect.

[muff]

i use a piece of wire, that way i can easily undo it and redo it while i pull the top end off

[a1965gt]

I have a related question,
I am doing the same thing to my 400.
Should the chain be replaced when doing this type of work?
Can I replace the chain without splitting the case?
THanks,

[Bill Fuller]

If you think the chain is stretched than replace it.I don't believe it was that expensive,but hey why not make it like new with no worries,You do not have to split the cases to put the chain on but you will have to take the outer cover(clutch side off) remember to get a new gasket.When you remove the clutch basket they(HONDA) recommend replacing the staked nut that holds it on,but you can salvage it if this is the first time removing it.You will need a strong impact to get that bolt off,hold the basket from turning with your free hand(I recommend using gloves or a towel to hold it with)just give it a couple of quick blasts and it will spin right off.

[a1965gt]

Bill,
Thanks for the info,
I will check the tension on the cam chain before I take it all apart to get an idea if it has stretched. If it seems out of spec, I will replace it.
Thanks again.

i jsut use a zip tie and strap it to my frame..for those of you that are going to replace your cam chain..dont spend 100 on a aftermarket one..order a crf450 one from service honda...like 35 bucks..its the EXACT same thing engine buyilders use..but they charge you about 60$ more....