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Primary Chain

Submitted by don_constable on Sun, 08/08/2010
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Heavy Twins

The primary chain on my 1960 Dominator 99 does not seem to last very long. I ride the bike regularly and with some 'energy'. I have just replaced the last chain after 3600 miles with another Renold 'Synergy' 1/2"p chain.

I have tried running with the oil bath using specified oil and running dry with regular application of 'BelRay' no throw chain lube. No difference.

Do you UK guys use a different chain or do I just have to change it every year or two?

Any comment or observation.

Submitted by tony_downie on Sun, 08/08/2010

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Keep changing Don. It's far more cost effective to change a chain than repair the damage a broken one causes at 6000 rpm

Submitted by leslie,peter_howard on Sun, 08/08/2010

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Hi Don. I can remember reading many years ago it was discovered that thin oil say 10SAE, was better than a thick oil to lubricate the primary chain. The reason being is that the primary chain revolves at quite a high speed around the clutch and engine sprockets and centrifugally flings out the oil from between the rollers where it is needed.

This happens whether the oil is fairly thick or thin, but thin oil has a much better chance of re-entering the rollers during it's course through an oil bath. With the thicker oil, the chain cuts a channel through it and leaves the chain less lubricated.

Unfortunately, thinner oil has probably more chance of leaking out of the tin chain case, so every effort should be made to get the cover sealed.

If the chain is well lubricated I would expect far higher mileages than the 3 1/2 K figure that your chains are lasting

I don't want to sound insulting in any way, but you do realise that the chain can be adjusted for tension ifit becomes slack?

All the best.

Regards.

Les H

You are

Submitted by don_constable on Mon, 09/08/2010

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No offence taken Les! I find thank little or no adjustment is needed for three or, up to, four thousnd miles then the chain seem to 'let go' and stretch quickly. I am also concerned that the clutch may be a factor as it does not run very true and is of an older type. This may be putting extra strain on the chain.

I am investigating a new RGM clutch. Finance is being carefully negotiated with 'her indoors"!!!!!

All the best

Don

 


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