GS550 Cam Timing

[081DBX64]

Ok. I am double checking my work. Does this look right for the cam timing.





https://goo.gl/photos/UktjRFtMgDwvkyjr8

https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipPpld9SQuIvpOqnKyAj0U4B1GtN4FbG5G3dN4MB4ukEkONzddM1umoeHSnzy-E4Rw/photo/AF1QipPrQYslXuOPwiMNI_reFD1oxcV8QhSz6H0ldcBT?key=ZmNKWVQ5NncwQ3ZlSk44Z1l2R201WXRrdnRjeUJ3

https://photos.app.goo.gl/bcndJXcvcyF7nYtw5

[Steve]

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[Nessism]

When the engine is brand new the 1- mark will point at the gasket surface. With mileage the cam chain elongated which results in the 1- mark being above the gasket surface. The photo shows the arrow pointing down which typically isn't the case with a used engine. It's a little hard to say but you might want to see where the arrow points with the exhaust cam retarded one tooth. (Again) typically, the 1- mark points slightly up.

[081DBX64]

Well. the bike runs good. However its hard starting after it sits for a few days. Im just checking everything. I'm pretty sure it was the vacume line to the petcock. When i checked the valve clearance i notice this.

[081DBX64]

OK! I just read something someplace else that the cam notches need to be parallel as well. Is this true? Take a look the pic again and let me know if I am off 1 link. CRAP.

[081DBX64]

Ok I did some measuring today. The cam chain is definitely beyond the factory specification and is stretched. I measured between 21 pins. I only have 20,000 miles on this bike and have owned it since it had 1000 miles on it. I don't understand because I take very good car of this bike. This makes no sense. I assume this is why it is such a hard start.


Can someone give me some suggestion on where to buy a new chain and the tools to put it in without tearing the entire engine apart?

Thanks

[Nessism]

Seems odd. What is your measurement and what tool did you use to measure. The spec says 6.213" (158.8mm) over 20 pitch lengths (between 21 pins). In terms of a chain and tools, you might want to check Z1 Enterprises.

[081DBX64]

Do I measure center to center on the pins on outside of each?

[Nessism]

Do I measure center to center on the pins on outside of each?

Center to center, or outside to inside. Don't measure outside to outside over 21 pins, or if you do then you need to subtract off 1/2 the pin width.

[081DBX64]

Ok. 156mm. Im not sure if that is a problem or not considering the position of the 1 arrow to the gasket surface. what do you think? Technically its withing spec. Dont know what a new chain measures though.

[Nessism]

Ok. 156mm. Im not sure if that is a problem or not considering the position of the 1 arrow to the gasket surface. what do you think? Technically its withing spec. Dont know what a new chain measures though.

The chain is okay. I wouldn't worry further.

I'd redo the cam timing and this time make sure 1-- is pointing above the gasket surface. Also (goes without saying, hopefully) check the valve clearances. Last thing is to check compression with a hot engine and the throttle held wide open. Should be in the 150 psi range. Poor compression can cause starting issues. Just be sure to check the valves before the compression check.