Cam Chain tensioner help

hey all,
I've started tearing down my 86 VF500 to replace the broken exhaust valve. I've got the Clymer manual that I'm working from. It's a bit vague on a couple of points. For example; how do you loosen the cam chain tensioner? The manual says to turn the engine counter clockwise and as the chain loosens to remove the oil pipes but it doesn't say how to loosen the tensioner.

 

The valve "broke" but didn't cause additional damage ??? That would be unusual.

How many miles on the engine ?

Do you have sources lined up for the new parts you'll need ?

You need the factory service manual, not the Clymer, for the info you want to properly rebuild any Honda engine.

 

squirrelman - I don't know what the damage is. I'm still in the disassembly stage. If it's too bad then I'm going to part the bike. I am trying not to spend money on a service manual that I may never use. I'm just trying to find out how to release the cam chain tensioner.

 

Mmm... VF500 parts.

The sharks are circling and the buzzards are overhead.

 

No tricks in removal, just take it apart as needed and you will be fine being sure to mark everything for reassembly. Putting it back together is a bit trickier.

 

How do I release the tension on the chain tensioner?

 

Here are some pics from the FSM on camshaft and head removal. If you need bigger pics send me a pm and I'll send you the pics.

 

You don't, it has to be removed and then it can be reset. When you get it oot and look at it things will be clearer.

 

Thanks Guys. there's the answer I was looking for. Every other engine (bike or car) I've ever worked on specifies to release the tensioner on the cam chain first. That way things don't pop loose and and do damage. It looks like I remove the cam gears to release that tension.

 

Check out THIS thread.
The arrowed locking plate holds the tensioner from getting loose. If you just push it backwards it releases the rod and then you can force the tensioner to give some slack to the chain.