Powersports Cam Chain & Belt Tensioners

Most powersports vehicles with a four-stroke engine use chain drive to synchronize the crank and cam(s), although some models employ a belt. Which kind of drive is better in terms of reliability or power is a matter of discussion, but whatever system is installed in a vehicle, the chain or belt has to be properly tensioned to perform well and last long. While belts are tightened up by spinning pulleys, chains work with hydraulic or mechanical tensioners available in different designs.

Driven by a crankshaft sprocket, the timing chain slides on the tensioner, or its plastic shoe, to be exact. Good lubrication with the right oil is a must in any chain-driven system, but still, friction makes both chains and shoes wear out, while tensioners can also fail. Soon or late, any of these parts will require replacement. When the chain gets loose because of the faulty tensioner or stretching, it creates specific noise and seriously affects engine operation. In some cases, the chain may even come in contact with the motor's cover.

The chain's rupture is a rare occurrence, but if it jumps over several teeth, it can be enough to kill the engine. Unlike the chains, modern timing belts are not subject to stretching, although they are flexible. However, while getting old or overstressed, they can lose cogs and start slipping, which also does the motor no good. It often makes sense to replace timing belts of chains together with their pulleys or tensioners, which helps avoid many potential issues in the future. On our virtual shelves, you will find a large assortment of chain & belt tensioners along with camshaft chains available in different designs and made of first-class materials.