I was just given a 1985 Vulcan 700 with the information that the Cam Spring Tensioner is bad. The bike itself is in great shape, butI am told I can't ride until it is fixed. Is this something I can fix myself or is it something I should try to have a pro fix. And if I can fix it what do I need to do? Better yet how can I be sure that is the problem, is there a certain sound or vibration to look for. I want to thank all of you ahead of time for taking the time to read this.

 

Kawasaki has been notorious with having crappy cam chain tensioners on their older bikes. A bad tensioner will make the engine sound like it's rattling while idling, and in the lower RPM range. The rattling sound won't be as bad in the higher RPM's though. I bought a manual cam chain tensioner from APE, and couldn't be happier! This may be the most simple of any item you could ever replace on your engine. Just two bolts, and it comes right out. If you can find a manual tensioner, get one.


This is what my tensioner looks like on the bike. If your Vulcan has an inline four, this is likely where it'll be. Otherwise, on a V-twin it's probably on the side.


Good luck, and welcome!