Crank Sprocket Timing Chain Problem

[UI Vandal]

I am 50% thru installing a xr200 cam into my 200s. When I put the cam chain back on the cam sprocket, how do I know that the chain is started on the correct tooth? Do I just attach the chain, pull the engine over while tooking at the timing and cam marks aming sure they line up at the same time? LMK ASAP, Id love to put around tonight with my new addition!

[UI Vandal]

Well it looks like when I took off the cam chain, I let it go too slack and now it is off of the crank. GGRRAAAHHHH!!! Is there a way to get it back on without removing the side case and getting a new gasket?

[3wheelmecca]

yeah, let off on the tensioner and you should be able to ride the chain back on. OR you could pull the cam again and reset it for improved accuracy. whichever works best.

[UI Vandal]

I should be able to walk it back on the crank pulley? If so that would be AWESOME! What ar the details for the way to go about this? I need to do a friends thing w/ the wife, when I get back maybe Ill spend a night on this...I mean it does have a headlight right?

[3wheelmecca]

you back off the tensioner on the base of the cylinder, or pull the cam, then it WILL go back on. I had to do that to my 200E and 185S.

[UI Vandal]

So, I have been monkeying with this for about 15 min. Cam is out, I am just dipping the chain low, pulling up and them pulling the starter to see if it catches...with no luck. Anyone have a more detailed approach? Spread the chain as i dip it down? Keep it to one side or the other? Is the sprocket down there more towards the center or outside of hte bike? I feel like I am aiming for something in the dark, with a chain, without a map.

[3wheelmecca]

I would throw the chain toward the crank, I would shine a flashlight down there.
Get a peice of wire and tie it to the chain, then fish it down, and you will feel it seat on the crank end gear, I would just pull and try that method.
the sprocket is closer to the crank side of the case.

[UI Vandal]

Seems like Ill have a afternoon of poking and cursing ahead. Thanks for the tips, Ill give it a go and report back.

[UI Vandal]

Well, after about an hour of unsuccessful games of dip-and-miss it was time for a new strategy. Instead of having the bike on flat ground, I had the front tire elevated so the cylinder was perpendicular to the ground. WOO! Got it on, back together, and started after the 4th pull. I am going to call around tomorrow to get costs for a valve adjustment then I should be good for the summer. Then it is top end rebuild time!

[3wheelmecca]

Isn't life awesome? glad you got it on. BTW are you going to send your head to me to get it done? made a flowbench.