How to tighten the chain

[Jpsalvador]

Hey guys i just bought my gz250 and its awesome, however i put 600 k's on her and the chain is loose any ideas on how to tighten the chain, Thanks


jp

[patrick_777]

If you just bought the bike, you really should download the Manual and read it over very carefully. This will explain the chain tightening process and everything involved.

http://www.gz250bike.com/viewtopic.php?t=29

The basic principle is to loosen the rear axle and adjust the push screws on the back of the frame/swingarms to pull the tire away from the engine, thus tightening the chain to spec (5-15mm slack). Then retighten the rear axle to the appropriate torque and replace the cotter pin with a new one (highly recommended).

Also, ONE post asking the question will usually get you the answer if the search feature doesn't come up with it first. Three posts spanning the forums is not the way to get any sort of respect around here.

[5th_bike]

Be careful and make sure that the chain is at its tightest before you tighten it. Move the bike slowly forward and test its slack with your foot, every say 15 cm/6 inches, or if you have it on a stand, roll the wheel by hand) because often, chain slack is different at different positions - the sprockets nor the chain are perfect. I also would not tighten it to the minimum 5 mm, rather to say 12 mm.

My bike has almost 2400 miles and the chain has not needed any tightening.

[patrick_777]

Mine needed it when I bought it used. It was, however, mentioned upfront that it needed tightening.

[Jpsalvador]

Thanks Guys really helped, however for anyone doing this, there are about 6 marks on the frame of the bike by the axle and when you are moving the wheel back make sure the marks of the axles bolt line up perfectly with the other side because then the sprocket willl not be positioned properly, Thanks again to everyone for the help

Jp

[Pete7874]

Can you buy a new cotter pin at any hardware store or Walmart? Or is it a dealer-only part?

[Easy Rider]

Originally Posted by Pete7874

Can you buy a new cotter pin at any hardware store or Walmart? Or is it a dealer-only part?

Any place.
Truth be known, about any kind of wire will work; even the old pin, if it doesn't break when being re-installed.

[blaine]

Originally Posted by Easy Rider

Any place.
Truth be known, about any kind of wire will work; even the old pin, if it doesn't break when being re-installed.

I use a clip pin,reusable,and much easier to remove & replace. :2tup:

[Pete7874]

Thanks guys!

[93CutlassSupreme]

Originally Posted by Easy Rider

Any place.
Truth be known, about any kind of wire will work; even the old pin, if it doesn't break when being re-installed.

Cotter pins should not be reused.