BarkSlayer said:
Getting ready to upgrade the cam chain tensioner to 2014 specs and wondered if anyone had a quick, reliable method for finding top dead center. Better yet...can anyone confirm if Yamaha even recommendes that in this case or if I'm just overcomplicating matters. Any help would be appreciated.
The correct way to find tdc is to take the clutch cover off and line up the marks on the crank gear. Because of the 270 degree crank, the cam seems to be under tension and prone to moving so Yamaha recommends zip tie'ing the chain to the cam gears so the chain doesn't jump a tooth when you remove the cam chain tensioner. It seems to be hit and miss from people here whether that happens or not.
If you pull the cover off and find a way to zip tie the chain together lower down, you should be able to replace the CCT safely without it jumping. Once the new CCT is installed you need to release it by bumping the guide against it so the plunger is unlocked from the clip in the CCT. The guide should be pressing against the chain if done correctly.
If it does jump a tooth, you'll need to dig in and remove the valve cover to reset the cam timing.
There's lots of threads here describing individuals trials and tribulations. Good Luck.
P.S. I did my own valve check/adjustment so I had the zip ties on the cam gears, but the CCT was replaced months later by the dealer under warranty.
