Chain

Chain Technical Data

 * <2007: 116 links, 525 size
 * 2007+: 118 links to accommodate ABS, 525 size

Links

 * [|DID Specs and Part Numbers]
 * DL650 part numbers: 525VM2 (upgrade) 525V (OEM quality)

**Lube**

 * [|DuPont Teflon Multi-Use Lubricant]

Chain Life
> Drive chain 20-pitch length service limit: 319.4 mm (12.57 in)
 * Count out 21 pins (20 pitches) on the chain and measure the distance between the two points. If the distance exceeds the service limit, the chain must be replaced.

Adjusting the Chain
[source: Skylos on DL650 Mail List]
 * Check the chain tension means: Place hand under chain. Press upwards with significant force. (30 pounds/12 kilos). press downwards. Rotate wheel a few feet. Check again. Choose the place where it moves the least. This is your slack.
 * If it moves more than an inch or so, when on side stand, it's loose. You should tighten it. (it'll be looser on a center stand, inch and a half)
 * If it varies hugely at different places in rotation, you have a worn chain and/or sprockets. Replace.
 * Its all easier to do with a center stand, but it is not required.
 * To adjust:
 * 1) Remove the cotter pin
 * 2) Loosen the axle bolt
 * 3) Remove the chain guard
 * 4) Sight down the chain. it shouldn't look like the sprocket is at a diff angle than the chain. If it is, adjust the right side with the hex nuts until the chain goes straight over the sprocket.
 * 5) Check the chain tension.
 * 6) Rotate the hex heads in the back of the swing arm to change tension
 * 7) Repeat 5-6 until tension is correct.
 * 8) Replace the chain guard.
 * 9) Tighten the axle bolt
 * 10) Replace the cotter pin.
 * And it's all doable with the stock tool kit!

You can see a video on how to adjust the chain at http://youtu.be/ICqpPuQMX0Q