R65 1981 - Timing chain change

[NorR65]

I have at last got the timing chain kit and tools I need to do the job.
I have to change the chain outside with no access to electricity.
First question: Is the chain from Nov.1980 endless or split chain?
If endless I will need my Dremel cutting tool.
Thanks

[Darwin_R65]

I believe it should be split, but the difference somwhere around 1980 they changed from a twin row to a single row, and the fish clip is installed differently on both.
Single row the fish clip is installed from rear, twin, it is installed from front.

this site http://bmwmotorcycletech.info/timingchain.htm

is a must read before doing a timing chain, and will save you hours of wasted maintenance and even $$$$ . I onoy yhalf read it and made mistakes that i picked up later.

Biggest mistake was I didn't fill any gaps into the engine with rags, which would have saved the fish clip from falling into the sump, resulting in a sump pan removal.

John

[NorR65]

Thanks John
It is a single row chain. I have already printed the site you mentioned.
Nice to read when I try to fall asleep. Rags in every hole and remember to align the sprockets is most important I believe.
I like to plan and read about what to do and have all the tools I need in front of me.
Can anybody else confirm endless or split chain?

[Darwin_R65]

also there monte's pictorial rundown on timing chain replacement, with 18 photos and instructions.

http://www.suraklyn.com/r65_forum_gallery/displayimage.php?album=35&pos=0

John

[Bob_Roller]

The chain has a master link .

[montmil]

NorR65,

Before removing the timing chain... Before removing the timing chain and after pulling the timing chain cover, position the engine at TDC. Use a Sharpie marker or a scratch awl to mark the appropriate tooth on the crankshaft gear -that's the smaller of the two timing gears- that aligns with the indented "dot" on the cam gear. The factory mark on the crankshaft gear cannot be seen with the timing gear in place. Nicely engineered, that. Not.

It's not a difficult job after you've done all the pieces/parts removal chores just to get to the chain.

Mucho chit chat about the timing chain master link. Does the little fish go on the backside or front? IMHO, it's a wash. Just remember, "little fish swims downstream."

Monte

[Justin B.]

Insert link from rear, clip on front.  I have no idea how somebody would put the clip on the back!

[trolle]

I succeeded putting the clip on from behind after dropping it into the engine twice and now you tell me that it doesn't matter which side it sits on as long as it swims downward  :-?

greetings from a north with thunderstorms

[montmil]

I succeeded putting the clip on from behind after dropping it into the engine twice and now you tell me that it doesn't matter which side it sits on as long as it swims downward  :-?

Who knew? Trolle, that backside chain master link clip install chore builds character. Must work 'cause your wife says you're a real character.  

Monte

[Justin B.]

Well, it probably really doesn't matter which side but it's sure a lot easier to put the clip on where you can get at it!

[NorR65]

I have at last started to change the timing chain.
After removing alternator, timing can and diodeboard I got the timing chain cover removed without problems.
I was expecting to find a worn timing chain and a chain tensioner in small pieces. But the chain and chain tensioner looked like new.
Is there a way to determine if it is the original BMW chain?

The new chain has no "fish" but two really small circlips instead.

When the mark and dot on cam and crankshaft gear was aligned the line above OT mark was not in middle of "the Window" in crankcase.
Should it no be in the middle?

[montmil]

I was expecting to find a worn timing chain and a chain tensioner in small pieces. But the chain and chain tensioner looked like new. Is there a way to determine if it is the original BMW chain?

Having lived in a relatively tidy and oily environment lo all these years, yes, the chain probably looks brand new. No rust. No dirt. Just tired and worn out. BMW utilizes multiple vendors, including chain manufacturers.
   The nylon-ish chain guides usually show wear where the chain side plates wear grooves in the material. Fit up the new ones and be happy.

Don't neglect fitting the new spring. Check the old one against the new; you may find the old spring measure a bit shorter than the fresh one.

The new chain has no "fish" but two really small circlips instead.

Don't think this can be a good thing. Be sure to fit the new link and fish clip upon install. Fish head follows chain's direction on rotation.

When the mark and dot on cam and crankshaft gear was aligned the line above OT mark was not in middle of "the Window" in crankcase. Should it no be in the middle?

As long as the gear marks are aligned, you're golden.

Monte