So you have your new cam chain in hand (and remembered to set the valve timing before removing the old one) – how to install it?
You need the cam chain sprocket and the two bolts that hold it in. Hook the new chain over the sprocket – in the picture below the sprocket is simply sitting on the end of the camshaft:
Try to align the cam sprocket holes with the markers as it was when you removed it – if you have forgotten take a look at the valve timing page. Don’t put the sprocket on the camshaft yet, first hook it over the crankshaft:
…and then slide the sprocket over the camshaft. This is one tooth off:
Take the sprocket off and move the cam chain one tooth around on the crankshaft and reinstall:
That looks correct. Absolutely double check the valve timing to ensure that everything aligns as it did when you took it off – the Honda CX and GL V-twin engines are interference engines and if you get it wrong you risk major engine damage. Grab your two cam sprocket bolts:
…and some blue thread locker:
Apply the blue threadlocker to both cam sprocket bolts:
Hold the camshaft in place with a deep 27mm box spanner (eBay US, eBay AU or the genuine Honda tool 07907-4150000 or 07907-MC70000) and torque them to 12-14ft/lbs (1.6-2.0kg/m):
The next steps vary depending on whether you have a bike with an automatic or manual tensioner. Click on the appropriate section below… once the articles are completed (not yet!)
- Automatic Tensioner
- Manual Tensioner