Help! Chain Tension Question

[moochdog]

I just changed the gearing on my 97 warrior to 15/38 because i have 18" tires. I also installed a new o-ring chain. My issue is that I loosened the chain tensioners all the way and pushed the rear axle as far forward as it will go. I installed the new chain and it is TIGHT with no slack. I had a little difficulty getting the master link in because there is no slack in the chain. However, if I had left one more link in the chain, it would have been way too loose to adjust the slack out of the chain. Has anyone had this issue before? How do I correct this? There is very little movement in the chain when I grab it from the middle. I know chains stretch but I doubt it will stretch that much. What is the biggest concern w/ a tight chain? Too much pressure on the transmission? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[YAMAHAULER]

How many link chain did you get?

 

[Jordysoso]

i got a 116 link RK x ring chain with gold 2mm side plates that i shortened to 98 links and it was tight until it loosened up a little bit, now its perfect

 

[moochdog]

I bought a 104 link chain and removed 4 links.

 

[bones]

im running a 102 links on my 87 with 15/38 gearing

 

[moochdog]

will the chain stretch enough or is having the chain this tight a problem? dont want to cause other issues.

 

[Gen1Pat]

You don't want it too tight. That can cause issues. You'd be better off getting some larger chain rollers to aid in taking the slack out of it. DRW makes them. You should still be able to get it somewhat close. I'm running 110 links with 15/40 and a +3 swinger on my stroker.

 

[1statv]

I'm putting my quad back together. the screws for the chain tightner go in the middle of the swing arm right where it curves correct??

 

[moochdog]

i changed the frt sprocket from 15 tooth to 14 tooth and the chain tension went from being too tight w/ no slack to having a little too much slack. I tightened the chain up just a touch and now its perfect! its crazy how much difference one tooth on the frt sprocket makes. thanks to all who helped.