Cam chain changing/tensioning on hornet

Well it looks like the hornet (600 '02) is making cam-chain rattling noises finally.

What I want to know is there any way of adjusting the tensioner, or am I just better off replacing it and the chain? The thought of the second option fills me with fear, as serious injury and apolcalyptic explosions are likely to follow. I know of a place via Z that'll replace the chain, tensioner, balance carbs and check valves for about £300. Should I just bite the bullet?

Decisions, decisions....

Unless there is high mileage on the bike it's unlikely to have worn out the cam chain,could be a faulty or worn tensioner. Even after all these years Honda still can't get them right.

Most modern tensioners are automatic and non adjustable,but they are easy to replace. That's what I'd do first before replacing the chain and guides.

What my learned colleague says - I'd whip the tensioner out first and give it a coat of looking at. Probably got a springy piston type thing in it that's stuck.

Download a manual from here http://www.repairmanualclub.com (you have to register but it's free) and case the job first.

Don't turn the engine over while you've got the tensioner out! I can't stress that enough

There is no way of adjusting the tensioner, they just have a (rather weak) clockwork type spring inside, so replacement is the only option. You can either go for a genuine Honda tensioner (if you buy from a Honda dealer you will get the latest 'updated' version of the tensioner) which should cost around £65 - £75 and comes with a new gasket. Or you can fit an aftermarket (such as APE) manual tensioner. The only down side to the manual tensioner is that you do have to adjust it fairly regularly (the one on my cbr needs adjusting every 500 miles or so, or around once a month. I have to lift the tank up to get at it, but your hornet will be easier and quicker to do as the tensioner is easier to get at).

Some bikes (mainly kawasakis and suzukis) have a ratcheted spring and plunger type tensioner, which you can slacken off until you hear one or two clicks and then retighten, to give them a boost if they get tired.

Cheers, will look into it.

Had to do a tensioner on my CBR6 F Sport. I believe the updated one is about £45 fro David Silver, and you get the little tool with it to lock it off.

Check with the guys on the Hornet's Nest - www.hondahornet.co.uk
You should get the definitive from them (after an argument about which colour is the fastest etc....)

What everyone else said - I have to change the tensioner on my 91 CBR every 3000 miles pretty much (but he has done in excess of 80K remember )! Such an easy job though - only takes me about 20mins now

Originally Posted by Diablo

What everyone else said - I have to change the tensioner on my 91 CBR every 3000 miles pretty much (but he has done in excess of 80K remember )! Such an easy job though - only takes me about 20mins now

You should try the manual tensioner, one off replacement - although you do have to adjust it a little more frequently than every 3000 miles, but its a bit easier to do.

Originally Posted by Diablo

What everyone else said - I have to change the tensioner on my 91 CBR every 3000 miles pretty much (but he has done in excess of 80K remember )! Such an easy job though - only takes me about 20mins now

I've just ordered one from David Silver for the F, so expect me calling for some expert direction some time soon!