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Chain Installation Guide
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IMPORTANT
Always replace with equivalent (or better)
chain and correct master link as recommended in the manufacturer’s service or owner’s
manual. Failure to install a replacement chain and master link equivalent to those
of the motorcycle’s original equipment type, size and pitch can be dangerous and
result in serious injury and property damage.
SIGNS OF A WORN
OUT CHAIN
• Rust
• Kinks
• Stiffness
• Excessive stretching (1.5% for non-sealed
and 1.0% for sealed chain)
• Abnormal rattling noise
A worn out chain can break at any time and should be replaced immediately if any of these conditions
are present. If even one O-ring is missing or damaged,
the entire chain should be replaced immediately.
If you can grasp one link that is in contact with the rear sprocket (while the vehicle
is not running) and you can pull the link more than halfway off a sprocket tooth,
it is time for a new chain.
HOW TO COUNT LINKS
Every pair of sideplates (both inner and outer) counts as one link. Chains
always have an even number of links.
INSTALLATION
1. Place your motorcycle on a center stand so the rear wheel can
spin freely.
2.
If the front sprocket is difficult to access, it will be easiest to use your old
chain to route the new chain through and around the sprocket (fig. 1).
3. Using pliers, remove the master link and connect the new chain
to the old chain. Pull through until the new chain reaches the rear sprocket.
 4.
Remove the old chain and connect both ends of the new chain using the new master
link (fig. 2).
 5.
Make sure the closed end of the clip is facing the direction of rotation (fig. 3).
6. If installing an O-ring or Quadra-X Ring chain, be sure to
slide the seal over the master link pins before installing the master link plate
and clip.
 7.
Standard chain adjustment for most street models is 1" to 1 3/8" (2.5 to 3.5cm)
of slack. We strongly recommend checking chain slack every 300 to 350 miles (480
to 560km). Refer to your owner’s manual for proper adjustment specifications (fig.
4). Check adjustment marks on swingarm so both sides are adjusted equally.
CAUTION: If chain is not adjusted
equally, the sprocket/wheel alignment will be off, causing chain to derail, possibly
causing damage and/or injury.
MAINTENANCE: Lubricate your chain every 300 to 350 miles
(480 to 560km) with a quality lubricant such as SAE 80-90 wt. motor oil or aerosol
lubricant designed specifically for motorcycle chains. When operating in hot, dry
and/or dusty conditions, you may need to lubricate more frequently. Apply a moderate
amount so lubricant penetrates between pins, rollers and bushings (fig. 5).
CLEANING: Do not use harsh solvents
or chemicals, such as gasoline or benzene. Sprocket Specialists recommends using a biodegradable degreaser
with a soft (non-wire) bristle brush or clean cloth for removing dirt. Use kerosene
(paraffin oil) if necessary, let dry and lubricate immediately within 10 minutes. Never use pressure washers, steam cleaning, wire brushes,
or volatile solvents such as gasoline, mineral spirits, contact cleaner, acetone,
or WD-40, all of which can damage O-rings.
MAINTENANCE: Apply a high quality lube every 300 miles (500 km). Non-sealed
chains should be cleaned and lubed more often.
CHAIN PITCH GUIDE
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Chain size |
Chain pitch (inches) |
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428 |
0.500
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520 |
0.625
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525 |
0.625
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530 |
0.625
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532 |
0.625
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630 |
0.750
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632 |
0.750
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 CAUTION: Replace chain immediately in the event
of contact with battery acid. Immediately clean chains that come in contact with
rock salt or salt water. Always lubricate after cleaning (fig. 6).
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Orders
1-800-782-8200
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Adapted from www.ekchain.com with permission 6-27-05. |
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