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[Rattlebattle]

I feel it's most likely normal tappet noise too. I wouldn't bother with the backlash; if there is no unseemly din from the r/h side it won't be that. These engines do vary a lot. As far as the oil is concerned from the mileage you have done it must be around 300 miles total, so is due for a change of oil and filter anyway. As for the-using oil is concerned, to me it's a matter of common sense. If, for example one has just changed the oil and then noticed that you've forgotten to put on a new drain plug crush washer, I can't see why one shouldn't reuse the oil....

[Ant1972]

So just for piece of mind i have drained the oil and checked the timing gear mesh which seems fine.

As the oil was drained (and after reading some terrible stories on primary chain failure) i decided to remove the primary case. All nuts etc are tight but the chain feels pretty tight to me. Is there a way to slacken it off ?

Cheers

Ant

[hagis]

Reading from my EFI manual the auto chain tensioner has a spring loaded plunger mechanism with a ratchet arrangement, it eliminates the need for manual adjustment of the primary chain tension. it does not need any maintenance or service. When these EFI engines are assembled in the factory the cam gear backlash is set to the required tolerance, this would only need be reset if the engine was pulled apart for repair after high mileage or if a component failed.

[Rattlebattle]

The manual for my C5 clearly states that the backlash should be checked and adjusted if necessary at the first service. (Actually there is a small discrepancy as to the mileage at which the first service and backlash adjustment should be carried out). I didn't bother and see I reason to unless there is undue noise from the timing chest. As the primary chain tensioner is automatic any attempt to slacken the chain will be self-defeating. If worried about it I'd put a decent make of chain on. Some Indian ones can be poorly riveted; many are ok. Do you hear a noise with the chaincase off and turning the crankshaft via the kickstart? If not I'd just button it up. Primary chainbreakage is not endemic, though is more frequent on the CGT it seems. Must be the extra 1bhp......

[Ant1972]

Rattlebattle, agreed ! ive given her a real good check over and cant find anything wrong. Time to button her up and enjoy riding i think.

Cheers

Ant