Manual Cam Chain Tensioner Installation
I just bought this CBR 600 F3 used. I trailered it home and began to assess what needed to be done. I noticed that at a low idle speed (bike stationary) there was a clicking sound. After some investigating on the internet I find that this is somewhat common. The Cam Chain Tensioner Lifter (CCTL) is hydraulic, and it seems that it is not strong enough to force enough tension on the Cam Chain Tensioner to keep the chain tight. The problems seems to lessen when the engine warms up. I also found that you can replace the automatic tensioner with a manual version made by American Performance Engineering. This upgrade should eliminate the clicking and give the engine slightly better performance... (according to them.)
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First you have to remove the right side lower fairing and access panel.
The CCTL is located on the exterior of the engine case just above the clutch. I had to remove the clutch cable adjuster bracket in order to have enough room to get a socket wrench in there to remove the CCTL. Just remove the two bolts mounting it to the engine case. It was still stuck after removing the bolts so I gave it a light tap with a rubber mallet and it came right off.
I measured the existing CCTL and matched the new one to the same internal length. I then measured how much of the bolt was sticking out of the end of the new CCTL. Noting that measurement I backed out the bolt enough that I could easily bolt it to the engine case. I put the gasket on and bolted it in. After making the adjustments to it I started the engine. Once the adjustment is verified lock the bolt in place with the locking nut on the base of the bolt.
That's it. Not much to it. Put your lowers back on and enjoy click free idling.
I hope this has been helpful for you.
