Why is chain loose on sx install

[Pedec]

Was putting chain on my timbersled 2013 sx kit that came off a 2012 ktm 450 dungy edition with fit kit. Installing on my 2012 ktm 250sx. So put 12 tooth sprocket on and cut chain to 66 links and from what I have read with bike up on stand should be tight fit to get chain together mine went on easy. So put bike on the ground and notice chain got tighter the opposite than what it suppose to do. Something is not right. So strut rod measures 11.75inches from bolt hole to bolt hole on strut rod which seems right I think. I notice strut rod look adjustable on sx kit do I need to make it longer. I took strut rod bolt out of top shock mount hole with bike on stand and move skid up and down and works like it suppose to chain is tight when skid is down and chain get looser the higher skid goes up. So what is wrong do I need to extend strut rod and how much. Thanks for any help.

 

[Pedec]

So when bike is on the stand no weight on track the chain measures 3/4 of a inch deflection sit on bike chain goes to a tight 1/2 inch deflection does this seem right. Should it not get more defection when skid moves up when you put weight on skid. Anybody else have hard time adjusting chain on old sx kits. Thanks for any help.

 

[powdermuncher]

Manny guys came up with various home made chain tensioners to try to fix that , just poor engineering.
On those there is lots of chain and sprocket wear part of the beast , it is still my favourite kit to ride though.

 

[Pedec]

Ok thanks for reassurance that I did install kit properly and it is just a design problem. So my plan is to just adjust chain so at the tightest spot to be around that 1/2 and looses 3/4 and just keep a eye on it. With new chain and very little adjustment window it could get annoying. At the 3/4 inch chain deflection the chain adjuster is not even toughing chain or putting any pressure on it sometimes. Need to put a spring in there somehow to keep it tight. Thanks for the help.

 

[Pedec]

Found a simple fix put a spring on the the bottom of tension setting bolt. Keeps a constant pressure on chain when it get loose. Spring was out of a starter motor cut to the strength you want. Think it will work just not tested yet. Got to zoom in to see spring.