FREQUENTLY ASKED
CHAIN, SPROCKET AND GEARING QUESTIONS
Q: What does
-1 in the front and +2 in the rear mean?
A: Faster
acceleration off the line, but less top end.
Q: What does -2 in the rear mean?
A: A lower engine RPM at a given speed.
Q: Can I use my new sprockets with my old chain?
A: No, a used chain has stretched and will damage the new sprockets.
Q: Can I use my new chain with my old sprockets?
A: No, it will damage the new chain.
Q: Can I change to a different pitch from stock?
A: Yes, as long as you match all the sprockets and chain.
Q: What is the difference between aluminum and steel sprockets?
A: The main difference is weight, which affects the rotating mass and
performance.
Q: Which will last longer, aluminum or steel?
A: Steel will usually last longer and is more durable.
Q: What does the tensile strength of a chain mean?
A: The tensile strength of a chain should match the size and horsepower of the
motor.
Q: How do I tell if my chain and sprockets should be replaced?
A: Pull the chain away from the rear sprocket at the 3 o’clock position. If
you can see light between the
chain and sprocket it should be replaced.
Q: Can I go from my stock OEM 530 chain pitch to a 520 pitch?
A: Yes, as long as you use a higher strength chain.
Q: What is
chain pitch?
A: It is the distance between the barrels and the width of the side plates.
Chain pitches usually come
in 520, 525 and 530.
Q: Can I use different pitch sprockets or chain for my chain kit?
A: No, both the front and rear sprockets as well as the chain must all be the
same chain pitch.
Q: How do I
know how to correctly install my countershaft sprocket?
A: Always measure
the distance between the sprocket itself and the motor before you attempt to
replace it. This will help you later with the correct orientation when
re-installing the front sprocket.
Q: After installing my new chain kit, I
noticed it makes more noise than it did before.
A: This is normal,
as the OEM front sprocket comes from the factory with a rubber bushing in place
for
noise reduction. This also causes more friction, which means lower
performance.
Q: Do I need
to lube my chain?
A: Yes! You should clean and lube your chain at least every 300
miles and even more often if your
chain is often exposed to the elements such as rain or dirt.
Q: How can I tell if my chain is
adjusted properly?
A: By pushing the chain upward from the
mid-point between sprockets. Usually about an inch of
upward movement is good. Remember, a little loose is always better than a little too tight.
Q: Can I use harsh chemicals / engine
degreaser to clean my chain?
A: No! Aside from
removing the anodizing from the rear sprocket, these harsh chemicals will
destroy
the x-rings in your chain and ultimately
ruin your chain.
Q: What does -1 tooth on my
countershaft sprocket do?
A: Essentially, -1
front is equal to going up 2 3/4 teeth on the rear sprocket. A lower teeth
count up
front results in more low end power and less top end. |
