'83 gs1100g

[Jinks]

Is this the correct cam timing? Screenshot_20251119-083041_Firefox.jpg

[Rich82GS750TZ]

I’m sure there is a detailed illustration in the factory service manual showing the numbered arrow on each cam sprocket and the number of chain link pins from one to the other.

https://gsarchive.bwringer.com/

[Nessism]

Can't tell from this photo.

1) set crank position to 1-4 T position. This is TDC for cylinders 1 & 4
2) set exhaust cam so that the -- mark by #1 is parallel to the gasket surface. Error on the side of the marking pointing slightly high, not down, because as the chain wears, the mark will point up.
3) count links between the marks on the cam, as described in the factory manual. 20 pins between the 2 mark on the exhaust cam and 3 pin on the intake. Again, check the manual for more info.

[Rich82GS750TZ]

Be careful in the counting, as it as often described to count the first pin over # 2 arrow on exhaust cam sprocket as “1” and the last pin over the # 3 arrow on the intake cam sprocket as “20”. That is different than 20 pins between the arrows.

[Jinks]

I told my friend that I could hear a metalic cam chain noise as he blipped the throttle, so as he checked the shims he noticed that there were only 19 pins between the arrows. So he fixed that, but I was looking for a better photo. I have shown him your responses. The cam chain tensioner is binding so that is the next project. The tank had a LOT of rust, but he did a lot of welding.