Cam chain tensioner cheaper options

[fazil]

Hello all,

I'll change cam chain soon.
While changing it, i may also change tensioner. But the original one is too expensive.
I checked ebay and find similar new Yamaha tensioners for 1/4 price.
They look exactly the same, do you think is there a difference, like spring rate etc.
Have a look:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/2535573801...lgv=DefaultOrganic&brand=Yamaha&ul_noapp=true

https://www.ebay.com/itm/1939221003...nic&brand=Yamaha&_trksid=p2047675.c101224.m-1

 

[Gary in NJ]

I wouldn't trust my engine to an inexpensive eBay Cam chain tensioner. If the tensioner doesn't properly adjust or just fails and lets lose, you are looking at new valves at a minimum. Could also cost you pistons and rods if there is any contact. This is a classic example of being penny wise and dollar foolish.

The tensioners you've posted appear to be for a Yamaha V-Twin. The correct part number 5SL-12210-10-00 is $110 in the United States. To me, this seems to be a disaster in the making.

A manual cam chain tensioner (MCCT) would be the same cost as the incorrect ACCT's that you have linked above. I'd be more inclined to use a MCCT made for the FZ6/Fazer.

 

[fazil]

Yes i agree, but what can be the difference in between, just spring tensions?
May be they are all the same....

 

[Gary in NJ]

Yes i agree, but what can be the difference in between, just spring tensions?
May be they are all the same....

Chain tension - which defines the allowable slack in the chain
Stroke Length - which defines the usefulness of the range of adjustment
Bolt Pattern/distance - which determines if it even fits the case
Cover plate Shape - which determines the shape of the.......cover plate

Why experiment with $40 when you don't have $100 for the correct part. Get an MCCT and adjust it when it gets noisy.

 

[trepetti]

Yes i agree, but what can be the difference in between, just spring tensions?
May be they are all the same....

Never, never, NEVER save money on something that can cost you LOTS of money. If you spend too much on a Yamaha Chain tensioner you will never pay for that mistake. If you save money on an inferior tensioner, you will regret every dollar you saved.

Just my 2 cents worth of wisdom.

 

[fazil]

Do you recommend manuel tensioner?

 

[TownsendsFJR1300]

I'd stick with the OEM unit.

.

 

[Gary in NJ]

Do you recommend manuel tensioner?

I would recommend an MCCT that is designed for the application over an ACCT that isn’t correct. But a MCCT requires an owner that is involved in the maintenance of the motorcycle because they do require adjustment from time to time. In the end, an OEM ACCT makes the most sense if you can afford it.