Checking cambelt tension

Discussion in 'Technical Help' started by bearingman, Dec 20, 2012.

Page 1 of 2
  1. Can anyone advise on how to check cam belt tension on my 2004 ss1000 (air cooled 2 valve). Had them changed when I bought the bike recently by the dealer - not a Ducati specialist. I'm sure he did not have the Ducati kit to do a frequency check. Has anyone rigged up their own gear to do this? Do I just measure deflection? Any help appreciated.
     
    #1 bearingman, Dec 20, 2012
  2. Download the 'Belts' software from Ducatidiag. Install it on a laptop and use it with an external microphone. You should pluck the belt between the bottom pulley and fixed tensioner aiming for 140hz with new belts.
     
    #2 Derek, Dec 20, 2012
  3. #3 antonye, Dec 20, 2012
    • Like Like x 4
  4. #4 Derek, Dec 20, 2012
  5. 45 degree twist method for me, with a 5mm allen key deflection thrown in for good measure.
     
    #5 The Hammer, Dec 20, 2012
    • Like Like x 1
  6. I've always used the Allen key method, and it's been good for the last 20 years. 5mm front pot, 6mm rear. A nice tight sliding fit between the belt and tensioner roller is good for me. I'm not a fan of the downloaded software method, I'm too old fashioned for that I'm afraid. I like spanners and doing stuff by feel and experience.
     
    #6 nuttynick, Dec 20, 2012
  7. Yep, me too:upyeah:
     
    #7 eyore, Dec 20, 2012
  8. thats the method recommended by my local independant

    dead easy, accurate and simple
     
    #8 popelli, Dec 20, 2012
  9. Same here
     
    #9 mcr998, Dec 20, 2012


  10. This^^, as beautiful as they are, The Ducati is still a mass production engine and this is perfectly suitable imho
     
    #10 srad34, Dec 20, 2012
  11. Another vote for the Allen key method. Done about 4000 miles on my belts (changed last Christmas) and not had an issue yet.
     
    #11 philoldsmobile, Dec 20, 2012
  12. +1 Another for the allen key method......96k miles and counting......check out the video on You Tube.
     
    #12 Android, Dec 21, 2012
  13. Allen key method has done for my last 8 air cooled Ducatis, including 3 of them racing in Desmodue.
     
    #13 Zimbo, Dec 21, 2012
  14. Looks like this is one of those things people worry too much about.
     
    #14 philoldsmobile, Dec 21, 2012

  15. yeah i think you should just twang it to sound like a middle C................
     
    #15 andyb, Dec 21, 2012
  16. Thanks for the info - a mechanical check seems better to me than some electronic stuff. Am I right in thinking I should be able to push the belt away from the tensioner pulley with my finger just enough to slide the Allen key through?
     
    #16 bearingman, Dec 21, 2012
  17. Thanks, have downloaded the software - will give it a go along side the allen key method which seems to be favoured by some
     
    #17 bearingman, Dec 21, 2012
  18. Don't forget to tension with relevant belt at TDC. Horizontal first as that's with all timing marks aligned, then turn motor 3/4 turn anti clockwise viewed from LHS. This will put rear at TDC. If you tension rear with timing marks aligned, the closing spring is pulling on the belt and gives a false reading.
     
    #18 nelly, Dec 21, 2012
    • Like Like x 1

  19. he hee thats going to confuse it....
     
    #19 andyb, Dec 21, 2012
  20. Definitely the way to go.
     
    #20 Billywiztheelder, Dec 26, 2012
(You must log in or sign up to post here.)
Page 1 of 2
Do Not Sell My Personal Information