Relocating chain adjuster on 200x to rear carrier.

[Cantwell200X]

I am tired of breaking chain tensioners on my x, having them come lose. So I plan on welding steel to the frame to eliminate the slot for the swingarm bolt, so there is just a hole ( no slot). Then cut off the rear carrier off the 200x swingarm and welding the rear portion of a 300ex swingarm to the 200x swingarm. I think this will work ! If i take my time and make sure everything is done right. Most importantly making sure the sprockets line up (looks pretty close).... Thoughts thanks,122371

[200XMichigan]

Sounds like you have a problem with something. I haven't heard of the adjusters on the 200X breaking or twisting or anything weird like that from anyone else on the board. Dumb question but are you tightening up the swing arm bolt enough? If its tight the adjusters shouldn't see any force while riding.

[leevarnado]

also could be tightening the adjusters to tight and leaving the swingarm bolt loose.

[ironchop]

either way....problems or not....I agree with your choice cantwell and you should put this thread in Mad Scientist Lair

that tensioner setup is ridiculous on the stock machine.....moving the front of the swingarm like they do effectively changes the shock geometry in relation to the frame and swinger mounts which seems dumb even on paper...might not make much difference but dumb nonetheless....the ends of the adjusters get bent and threads get F@#cked up and I just don`t like the stock design at all.

I wait to see your progress on this, eagerly.

[Dirtcrasher]

Once there is a 300EX carrier and axle in there, just be sure it lines up 100%.

It will be a decent offset to the right with that carrier and holder.

I'd build a jig for welding that or it may pull one way or the other if it's off......

[hang&rattle]

That's a great idea. We've went though so many tensioners. They're to soft, to cheap. Honda shouldn't have skimped on them and put some real, hard, thick steel in there. Plus poor accessability. I feel ya Cantwell200x, good luck, it'd be neat to see a better set up for a decent price.

[Red Rider]

I only had a 200X for about a year when I sold it to get my 250R. Seeing this thread reminded me of how lame that chain adjustment system was. What you're planning, sounds like a nice improvement to your X. Once you weld the carrier portion to your X's swingarm, it seems reasonable that you'll also need to switch over to a complete 300EX rear-end (bearing carrier, axle, sprocket, brake stay, & caliper).

[Dirtcrasher]

If they had made a block system like the dirt bikes have, it wouldn't be so vulnerable.

Keep your bearings tight and run a good chain and the 200X isn't too terrible.........

[hillbilly 200x]

^^ Dirtcrasher is right, I ran my x all last year with out any problems. Putt a good chain and sprocket on there keep it greased and leave it alone. just my .02

[4cylinders]

hey, can't disagree, but an add-on chain tensioner plus the slotted hole rework might be a better fix.
before I did that, I'd check the chain and sprockets for wear. that can cause the problems you are describing too.