Spring Return Chain Tensioner

The fact that I run a 4 stroke with pull start doesn't hurt with that issue.

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I am coming to the conclusion that Scotchmo is right. I have decided to run a two roller setup instead of a spring loaded tensioner. I realized that all of the motorcycles I have had didnt have sprung tensioners just UHMW guides that kept everything from slapping around so thats what I am doing. The second roller is going to be placed where the chain seems to jack up and down the most......I will report back and provide some pics.

This is my attempt at a spring loaded tensioner..........

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Nice, I've been thinking of the exact same design for a while but the standard tensioner has been working well on my bike and I didn't change it. Well done!

Hi you all; the method I use is adjust the rear wheel as far rorward as possible. Than cut the motor chain as short as possible. Use the rear wheel axel to tighten the chain. If you are using a bicycle with a rear wheel speed changer it will keep the pedal chain tight. If you are using a single speed bike I use eithe the spring or the adjustable tightner on the pedal chain. This method stops all the trouble using the tensioner on the motor chain. The bike will run a lot better and fastet.

I would have done the shortened chain method but I have to bring the chain up like that to clear the frame or it will rub. I wish they would switch the motor drive chain from that thick 415 to regular bike chain then it would clear the frame and not be such a draw on the motor. It has always seemed to me that the motor is always fighting that thick chain and I dont think these motors make enough hp to need that kind of chain.

Bikedad, I think you are on the something there. I bet the second roller really smooths the chain vibration. Great idea.

I ditched the sprung part of my chain tensioner and now its just two rollers and it is more like a chain guide rather than a tensioner. Works great!

1 up for this idea. my brother did this and works great so much less head ache.

to misteright from johnmartinwright have just bought the chain tensioner from tractor supply and following your example will have to go to hardware shop to get the allthred 3/8 rod this looks like a very very good setup and anticipating a good ride from my bike without the worry and troubles of having the chain to come off with me miles away from home LOL thank you for the idea and leading me to look for a much better chain tensioner looking forward to a great ride THX very much JOHNMARTINWRIGHT