Hey everyone, my name is Andreas and I live in CT, USA. I always wanted a Triumph and last year I managed to buy a 2001 Bonneville. I didn't pay much as it needed top end work. I took the top end apart and fitted new pistons, rings, honed the cylinders and checked valves, shims, etc. When I tried to put the cylinder barrels back, I noticed that the camchain came off the crank gear. I tried to put it back but it just wont go back. Is there something that prevents it from sliding back onto the gear? Do I have to open the cases to refit it? I hope not! Please let me know if there is a way to fit the cam chain back to the crank gear. I would like to say that I am glad that I found this forum were I can have discussions with other like minded people!
Welcome to the forum Andreas, I can't help you with your cam chain issue but the more tech minded members will be along soon I'm sure to shed some light, they're a helpful bunch, hope you get it sorted soon.
Welcome to the madhouse you should fit right in. To keep the inmates happy we will need photos. Tucker
The only thing that comes to mind is that while you were fitting the pistons the crank has rotated trapping the chain around the bottom of the sprocket. Try pulling the chain upwards whilst trying to turn the crank back and forwards, that should free things off and allow you to locate the chain on the crank sprocket and then line up the timing marks on the camshaft. Unless of course a dowel or similar has dropped into the crankcase, check that nothing is missing, it’s easy to overlook a small part right until the final assembly.
Welcome to the forum, have you removed the tensioner? if so the chain could be trapped between crank sprocket and a web, is the chain loose and free to move before head is/was attached.
Antreas Firstly welcome to the Family. Your question is just about answered. Yes you will have to loosen the tensioners. The cam sprocket if it is bolted to the shaft you may have to unbolt it if not you may have to unbolt that cam. It can be fidelity but not hard. Biggest point make sure you keep it all lined up with the timing marks. Let us all know how you get on. Ride Safe Joe.
Wow! Thanks everyone! I didn't expect so many replies from people trying to help me! I have to say I'm impressed and feel part of the group! I will go back to the garage on Monday as I will be working during the weekend... Can't wait to try to get the camchain right by following your instructions. I will also take photos and post. Once more THANK YOU!
All right everyone, I finally found some time and worked on the bonneville. I opened the cases and put the cam chain back on, as well as cleaned and inspected all gears, cams, etc. It seems like there is something to hold the cam chain from coming off.
Thank you for your help! Now it seems like I have another issue. The bike clicks but does not start. I cleaned the relay and solenoid, as well as changed thr battery. I also bypassed the side stand sensor just to see if it'll work... still the same. Both relay and solenoid click but engine doesn't turn.