| Chain Maintenance |
| Essential for Longer Life |
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| One of the most important, yet most neglected parts of a motorcycle is the drive chain, because it is strong and relatively trouble free, many bike owners are not aware that proper maintenance is essential for longer life, maximum performance, safety and a better ride. In addition, proper care of the drive chain can reduce sprocket wear and increase sprocket life. |
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| Replacing the Drive chain |
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| There is a natural stretching of drive chain to wear. The amount of stretch of a non sealed chain should not exceed 2.5 to 3% of its original length. Sealed chain stretch should not exceed 1% of its original length eg: 3/4" on 110 link chain based on a chain with 5/8" Pitch. Over these, the chain must be replaced along with worn sprockets. |
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| Tension Adjustment |
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| A drive chain that is too tight speeds up wear by excessive pressure on the sprocket teeth, the chain joints and the gearbox mainshaft bearings. A chain that is too loose will wear quickly and may have a whip action that can cause it to snap. A chain that is too tight or too loose will result in excessive elongation. Normal sag is 3/4". To check for it, press down on the top strand of the drive chain with your fingers. Tighten or loosen to achieve 3/4". In any case you should always consult the manufacturers handbook for your particular machine. |
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| Sprocket Alignment |
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| It is important to check sprockets for wear periodically. If wear occurs on one side of the teeth it means there is misalignment, a condition which will result in greatly reduced chain life. Check sprocket alignment visually by sighting across them from the rear of the motorcycle or by placing a ruler or suitable straight edge against them to see if they are in the same place. Realign or replace as required. |
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| Lubrication |
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| Motorcycle drive chains are exposed to dust, dirt, grime and other types of corrosive and erosive particles that can reduce their power transmission efficiency by more than 15% of their life to 1/100th of chains that are properly lubricated. In addition regular lubrication puts a layer of oil between the roller and bushing to absorb shock load. |
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| Maintenance of Sealed Chains |
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| External lubrication is recommended every 3000 miles. Use paraffin oil for washing chain, and never use steam, thinners or solvents such as petrol and benzine. The amount of stretch should not exceed 1% of its original length and over this the chain should be replaced. In the case where even one seal ring is missing or damaged the entire chain length should be replaced. When replacing the chain we recommend that it should be fitted endless as this is the only way the original chain strength can be maintained 100%. On certain Superbikes this type of fitment is an absolute must!! |
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| Important |
| All Sealed Ring chains are supplied with 'Press Fit' rivet links. 'Press Fit' rivet link side plates must be pressed on with long handled adjustable pliers. Do not attempt to hammer side plate on!! This can cause stress to the connecting link and cause it to break in use. For endless chain fitments please have the job carried out by a D.I.D stockist in a professional workshop. |
