measuring drive chain slack

[UnSaniTiZ]

hey guys. I'm recently bought an 04 gs500f and despite my best efforts to find it, as I'm sure it's already been answered. I can't find any instructions on how to measure the drive chain slack. All i've found is that there needs to be .8"-1.2"

Could someone please explain exactly how to measure it?

I've been hearing a rattling/grinding noise when I pull the clutch in and my first guess is that it's the drive chain.

Thanks, and sorry that I need to ask a question that I know has already been answered. If someone has a thread bookmarked, by all means, link me.

-UnSaniTiZ

[LPC2104]

Alpha helped me out earlier this summer.  Scroll down the link.....it won't get any better than this.


LINK

[UnSaniTiZ]

Thanks, do you measure the slack in the bottom or top of the chain loop?

[brett]

If your chain has worn evenly, it shouldn't matter if you do it from the top or bottom, but the top is probably easier to get at. Whether you measure from the top or bottom, the important part is to measure at the point where the chain has the most slack, ie in the middle of the chain, not close to the sprockets.

Alpha's method for measuring the chain (in the linked thread) is off. The .8-1.2 inches of slack is measure from the center of the link when you push the chain down and the center of the link when you push the chain up.

[Jace009gs]

it dosn't matter top/bttm....just use the same reference point....(ex: top of the chain links)

FYI IT will take two people to measure the chain.....YOU THE OPERATOR need to be sitting on the bike off the stands. Supension sag play a role. that's why they give you the specs of .8-1.2" of free play



Make sure to tighten that rear axle nut/bolt up real good.....I want to say 45ft/lbs or more....not sure check manual...but if you don't the first jab of the rear brakes will pull the wheel assembly up into swing arm area then you get on the throttle and clank......it makes a horrible sound trust me


One other tid bit-
also measure the distance from the swing arm radious to the lip of the wheel. You want the wheel square so double check the LH and RH measurements are equal

[LPC2104]

I thought the .8-1.2 were directed with nobody on the bike?

[Killermarmot]

I thought the same, the Clymer manual certainly gives the impression it is with noone on the bike.

[Jace009gs]

I think.......checking manual now.........