09-11-12, 10:25 PM
If you cannot join the chain or are uncomfortable about doing it then get the local shop to join it for you and remove the swinging arm to replace it. removing the swingin arm is not a difficult job just time consuming. Check out page 7-60 onwards in the service manual. At the end of the day it is only a few more bolts and make sure you put back the thrust covers on either side of the swinging arm if they fall off. Most people can tighten a bolt to the correct torque, but would not have the confidence to join a chain. It will take more time, but compare it to the alternative if the chain is not joined correctly, plus it will give you a chance to inspect the linkage bearing and grease them. When you fit the chain the correct tension is when the chain just touches the swinging arm protector with the bike on the centre stand.
I have found over the years that replacing the front sprocket on a regular basis can double the life of the chain, remember the front sprocket wears 3 times as fast as the rear (15 teeth to 45 teeth). My first chain lasted 40000 miles and 3 front sprockets which cost a total of £21. Many (not all) would have gone through at least 2 chains or more in that mileage.
Shops will tell you to replace all but there is no need. Check if the chain lifts off the rear sprocket more than 5mm at different points around the chain to determine how worn it is, the more it lifts off the more worn it is. My present chain has 33000 miles on it and it still does not lift 5mm off the rear sprocket. I am on the third front sprocket.
There is a lot more profit in a chain and sprockets than a front sprocket.
Good advice there from wezdavo
Good luck on the work.
I have found over the years that replacing the front sprocket on a regular basis can double the life of the chain, remember the front sprocket wears 3 times as fast as the rear (15 teeth to 45 teeth). My first chain lasted 40000 miles and 3 front sprockets which cost a total of £21. Many (not all) would have gone through at least 2 chains or more in that mileage.
Shops will tell you to replace all but there is no need. Check if the chain lifts off the rear sprocket more than 5mm at different points around the chain to determine how worn it is, the more it lifts off the more worn it is. My present chain has 33000 miles on it and it still does not lift 5mm off the rear sprocket. I am on the third front sprocket.
There is a lot more profit in a chain and sprockets than a front sprocket.
Good advice there from wezdavo
Good luck on the work.