Cam chain tensioner will not release

[jack d]

Adjusted valves on my 2014, reinstalled and timed cams for which I could have used some more hands and am now trying to get the cam chain tensioner to release the plunger and push on the chain tensioning blade. It seems to release easy on the bench, but not on the bike. According to the manual I just need to tap the tensioning blade with a screwdriver which will push the tensioner in slightly and the plunger will pop out past the snapring and everybody should be happy and the reassembly can begin. The plunger will not cooperate. The plunger tip does push on the blade when I am installing it so it does reach.
Any ideas?

 

[jack d]

OK, I greased the plunger and snapring grooves and it popped right out. Now I will eat a sandwich, drink a beer and when I have enough courage I will turn the engine over a few times and pray that the cams are still in time. If so I can move on to the ever popular cam cover installation!

 

[steve68steve]

Man, I really don't want to wiz on your gig, but you're in chapter one of my epic valve adjustment fiasco which ended with a Graves manual tensioner.


My CCT deployed but was noisy thereafter. I ripped it all open and reset it a second time, still noisy, then a no-start because timing had jumped two teeth.


There are a few manual tensioners available - some really cheap. The CCT in these bikes is a known issue, and considered a wear item by some here.


Of course, all could be fine. When you start it, you'll know. Well, actually don't be TOO freaked out if it's noisy at first. It operates on oil pressure and might take a bit to fill up and pressurize after having it all apart and re-setting.
Good luck!

 

[AdvToorer]

If you did a valve adjustment, aren't you leaving the cover off to allow inspection?

 

[jack d]

"Well, actually don't be TOO freaked out if it's noisy at first. It operates on oil pressure and might take a bit to fill up and pressurize after having it all apart and re-setting."

Hey, I had a couple of BMW R1200s, they do that half the time when you start them.