'83 VF750f, Cant get tension on front cam chain?

I'm new to this forum, just bought a VF750F a few months ago and trying to get it running, so far I've given the carbs a good clean and taken out the cams to check condition, trying to set timing and I can't get ehough tension on the front cam chain without the chain skipping on the sprocket, the chain and sprockets are in good cond not worn. There was good tension when i took them out but just can't get it back??

Cheers

 

It is common for the tensioner lock rod to get slight bend in it and then it will not want to slide and lock again, other things go wrong with then as well. I woul pull id back oot and inspect the rod and lock.

 

Ok great, I'll check that out. Thanks mate.