How to Replace Harley Twin-Cam Chain Tensioners {W/Out Special Tools!}

Published 2022-05-16
In this video, I show how to replace the twin-cam tensioners without using super special tools. I mean I do, myself on some things, but I give an alternative for everything and show how to do it. This is coming from a factory-certified HD Mechanic and I'm telling YOU to get adjustable pushrods!


The tensioner shoes I recommend
cycogasket.com/99-05.html

All Comments (21)
  • @thebuzztone
    This channel's potential is unlimited . Watching and understanding the work of a Pro is priceless. Thanks so much, this helps A LOT !
  • @BaldEagle714
    I just want to thank you for your video. I bought a 1999 FLHPI last year with 54000mi on it. It had been sitting for 10hrs. I’m an ok mechanic but had never been in a Harley motor. You gave me the confidence to replace my tensioners and Inner bearings. Mostly because you speak my language. I’m in the NC mountains. Most of the videos want you to have all these special tools. Thanks again man. You’re alright
  • '04 FLHR, ~35K miles, single owner. Been cutting the oil filter open every oil change, checking for nylon particles. However, I know it's about time to change to tensioner shoes. Usually when I watch a YooToob video, it shows the best way to NOT do something. Yours was actually... inspiring... :)) Thanks muchly for the helpful tutorial!
  • @slopomove4492
    Love the video man. I rode for 11 years with the police department and I'm about to buy my first true bike. I'm thinking about buying a 2006 Softtail from a guy I meet recently. Another good friend of mine lives in Georgia has a 2005 Softtail and he schooled me on the fact that the tensioners had to be replaced every so often. So I'm doing my homework before I make a purchase. I was a mechanic in the Army back in the day so I think I can tackle the job. Awesome info. Music was a little loud at times but I think I made out what you was saying. Keep up the good work and videos.
  • @johnweary243
    Hey man , just got done replacing my cam chain tensioners on my 03 softail, all work was done following you and your videos, and it went flawlessly!!!!! I cannot express enough gratitude to you for your time and knowledge, Thank you so much!!! I wish I lived close to you, you would get any and all of my bike work!! I was gonna send you a couple of pics of the work getting done by me, but I couldn't find a email address for you. Anyhow, so grateful for your time!!!! Stay safe and God Bless you buddy! John
  • I have just read all the comments below and learned a lot of useful information. The best place on YT when wrenching on your HD.
  • Thanks for the video. My dad passed away recently and I just took ownership of his 2005 Ultra Classic. I also suffered a head injury that resulted in a TBI. Mine affects me more than I let on but having videos like this one help me tremendously. Thanks for the help!
  • @Charger1908
    I’ve been turning wrenches for over 50 years primarily on cars , truck and tractors. Never had schooling just the way I was raised I guess. I really enjoy your vids there is no bullshit just facts. I just started building the latest Harley engines and in the distant past I built a few shovels and several iron head sportsters. I like how you get into the nitty gritty on the best ways to do things. Keep at it brother thanks!
  • @richc767
    Just found your channel. I have a 2K Heritage that I bought in 06 as a total and put back together. I have never checked the tensioners ( I must be really lucky) or the original owner had them replaced. This thing had 45K when I got it and I have put on at least another 20K. Going to pull the cover before the season starts this year and see what is what. I will definitely replace the tensioners. Thanks for the video!
  • Great video. Did mine two years ago and used the shoes from Cyco Gaskets. Figured the "Stanyl polymide" shoes would have to be better than stock. Thanks for proving it. I was going to convert to hydraulic this winter, but going to stay with the springs and save that $800.00 and use it to fill up my gas tank {maybe]. Anyway I'm 71 and figure ole Double Barrel will probably outlast me. I subscribed, so keep those motion pictures coming.
  • i have an 02 heritage with 25k miles and sometime soon i will have to do something. i can't believe HD couldn't have come up with a little something better than plastic like maybe a roller with bearing. thnx for the info and demo.
  • @Geriatric_Gaming
    This is by far the best how-to Harley video on YouTube! Thank you!
  • @61soldiergirl
    Brother very cool,info was great. I subbed. I have to do this to my wife’s 03 lowrider. Only has less than 14 thousand miles. This is her iPad I’m using it. Thanks for sharing this important process. This is the third one I’ve watched and the better one. I’m confident I can handle it now. Thank you
  • @mikecross1402
    Hey brother, I just want to ay thank you for sharing your knowledge on this.I did have harley davidso press my cams and put the secondary tensioner.I also went with the SS quickies for my next go round. Again thank you shes up and running now.
  • @NKBobcat
    You would definitely be my trusted Harley guy if we were in the same area! You make it look easy and for you it may be. I would entrust it to a pro like yourself.
  • @Eatonsa69
    Thank you! Great video, helped me get back on the road with good tensioners.
  • @boxcarbro3043
    You are the man! I learned so much right here. Im filling my cart with shit I need to do this job and added the pushrods. Im not installing new cams, but I know I need to do the shoes. So Ill def be in the cam chest again at some point. Im also ordering a high pressure oil pump, so now I know I need those alignment pins you mentioned in the beggining! Thank you.
  • @ryanrogers8778
    Thank you for taking time to make videos. What a great help before I do it myself.
  • So far your the best on you tube for bike maintenance my man ! We Ty
  • Great job, I just changed my tensioners on my Kawasaki vulcan very easy compared to what you just did there, you'd think they would have a better design for tensioners they wouldn't wear out, always good to learn just in case.