I'd like to go down a tooth on my front sprocket but never done that mod before, is it a diy job, does anyone have a walkthrough for it and a list of tools you need for the job ?
I'd probably get someone to watch over you for the first time mate in honesty. You'll need a LONG breaker bar, right socket, torque wrench, hammer and screwdriver, then something for the rear C Spanner to allow chain to be loosened/tightened to fit and tension, you'll also need a mate to hold it while you crack the nut probably. It's not a hard job.. but not sure I'd be doing alone the first time.
Mmmm that does sound like a job you need a bit of tuition for. Thanks for the advice, I'll have to keep it on the list for a while I think and enjoy 1st and 2nd gear a little more !
I did mine the other year, was one of the first things I did to my 996 as well as giving it a major service. I did it as part of a chain/sprocket change though and took the opportunity to not only drop 1 tooth on the front but fit a quick change rear sprocket carrier as well. I cant remember the exact steps now, but usually they are along the lines of using an allen key to undo the sprocket cover. Then the nut which holds the sprocket in is usually held in by a big flat washer which has its end hammered over the side of the nut to stop it undoing - hammer these back using a hammer/chisel (or screw driver). Use long bar on a socket to loosen sprocket nut. I didnt have any problems with this although you may have to stand on the brake pedal or hold the front brake on if its a tough one to stop the bike moving. Then slacken chain off using chain adjuster on back wheel, (or in my case I took an angle grinder to it and cut it off). Pull old sprocket off, put new one on with chain (may have to put chain around sprocket before you bolt it on), then torque up to correct level (again, may need foot on brake if bike moves), hammer washer thing back over side of nut to hold it in, tension chain, spin back wheel to make sure chain is moving about correctly, then replace sprocket cover. All done.
Isn't the 996 the same as the 916? If so its just 2 small bolts remove the plate and then slide the sprocket off
Ah that rings a bell, been working on jap bikes recently which only have the 1 nut holding the sprocket on. Same principle though, just 2 smaller bolts rather than 1 nut.
It also came on the 998 but anything before should be the setup that uses two bolts and an offset locking plate.
Well with my new found mechanical ability from sorting my throttle issue I've ordered a chain adjustment spanner and a 14T sprocket and will give this a go. Please look out for "I have taken everything apart and (insert various potential issues here)" type threads coming soon.
