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Newbie with a chain question
- fishybass
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- EsaPro
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Jim
79 KZ750 Twin (Fun!)
07 Yamaha 1300 (Plush!)
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- Patton
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In general, what should I be looking for when I assess the condition of my drive chain? I understand the things that clymer lists about chain wear and deflection... but should I be concerned about a rusty chain? I am about to buy a 1980 KZ550 A1 and first indications are that the chain is not overly worn, but I am concerned about it's lack of grease or lube (dry as a bone). I am debating between just greasing it up and calling it good, or replacing it. What would you be looking at when deciding to replace the chain?
Is it an o-ring chain (supposedly self-lubed internally and permanently)? Opinions differ on need to lube an o-ring chain. I have good luck either way, lube or no, but at least use WD40 or other light lube occasionally to deter rust formation on the 0-ring style chain.
Rust on a non-o-ring chain and lack of regular lubing maintenance likely means an early death.
Does the rear sprocket look okay?
Would also ask the owner for any details he may have about the chain and sprocket.
Before replacing it in this instance, I would "grease it up and call it good," using bona-fide chain lube.
1973 Z1
KZ900 LTD
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- Patton
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Easy to test by examining chain while rotating rear tire in neutral on center stand with engine off.
1973 Z1
KZ900 LTD
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- RonKZ650
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321,000 miles on KZ's that I can remember. Not going to see any more.
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- kzwolfsr
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1979 KZ SR650, stock candy persimmon red and crossover pipes
1981 KZ 1000LTD with non stock and more comfortable handle bars and 4 into one V&H
Original man of the Caribbean
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- fishybass
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The wife was deathly afraid of me owning a bike because of her cautious spirit. I was afraid to buy a bike for risk of pissing her off so badly that I would be sleeping on the couch through year two of our marriage. So, our agreement is that I will buy the bike, store it at my parents house in Northern Minnesota, and ride it occassionally there so I can build my skills on road's less populated than South Minneapolis and she has time to gain some comfort with the idea. I have no doubt that in a couple of years she will be on the back of it with me. Or hell, she might have her own bike.
I think this is a reasonable compromise. I am just waiting to find a good time to use my dad's pickup to get the bike and drive it up north. That will be in about two weeks.
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- kzwolfsr
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1979 KZ SR650, stock candy persimmon red and crossover pipes
1981 KZ 1000LTD with non stock and more comfortable handle bars and 4 into one V&H
Original man of the Caribbean
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