Cam chain tensioner. Does this look like it needs to be replaced?

[kickstand]

How concerned would you be if this was your cam chain tensioner? 1971 CB350K. I checked it because I was finding little bits of rubber in my oil last year (https://vintagehondatwins.com/forums/threads/black-bits-in-oil.14121/). I talked to my local mechanic today and he said he wouldn't do this job. He said jobs like these aren't money makers for him so he doesn't do them anymore. So unless I can find someone else nearby who will replace it, I might be doing it on my own if it's necessary. So hopefully it's not necessary yet.

 

[EzPete]

I’d keep it in mind to do and keep the oil changed fairly frequently - you’ll be doing it eventually and it’s not a difficult job. It is, however, one of those “while you’re there already…” kinds of jobs that can turn into a whole lot of upgrades and/or restoration.

 

[ericfreeman]

Your location would be helpful in case one of us is nearby.

 

[kickstand]

I’d keep it in mind to do and keep the oil changed fairly frequently - you’ll be doing it eventually and it’s not a difficult job. It is, however, one of those “while you’re there already…” kinds of jobs that can turn into a whole lot of upgrades and/or restoration.

Good to hear that it's not an emergency yet. I'll keep it in mind and try to do it in the next year or so. And yeah, I imagine I'll want to do lots of other work while I'm in there.

 

[kickstand]

Your location would be helpful in case one of us is nearby.

Good thinking.
Massachusetts.

 

[EzPete]

Good thinking.
Massachusetts.

I’d consider it a good lightweight winter project. It’s a good chance to inspect the head, check hardware and fasteners, do some of the deeper maintenance stuff. None of it is overly complicated if you’re methodical. Mostly lefty loosely, righty tighty with some pretty basic tools. Swap the roller, and the gasket set the tension and call it a day.

Good chance to inspect and clean, set the valve clearances after a season, etc.

 

[Alan F.]

Good thinking.
Massachusetts.

HI Neighbor.

 

[ancientdad]

Good to hear that it's not an emergency yet.

But "yet" can be subjective. From the look of that hardened roller, it could start shredding soon and once they break away a few decent sized chunks then they go fast after that, and then you get to the point of potentially ugly results.