The CB1100 Community Forum

Two questions. When I tried to check my oil with the meter on the side this is what I saw. Doesn't look like what's in manual. Any insight on that?

Also...on my chain wear indicator, how do I read it?

Thanks in advance!


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Josiah these bikes often come from the factory slightly overfilled so the site window will look dark since it's completely covered in oil. When you change your oil at 600 miles it can be carefully monitored and filled just to the upper line on the case beside the site glass.

as far as your chain adjuster goes as your chain stretches and gets some slack it has to be adjusted. Once the axle nut is loosened the adjuster bolts can be tightened, this moves the axle back taking the slack out of the chain and moves the little grooves back on the adjuster and swingarm. This must be done evenly on both sides until the correct chain tension is achieved 1-1.4" of slack measured on the bottom run of the chain halfway between sprockets. When the chain has stretch beyond service the decal on the side of the adjuster will indicate that by the end of the swingarm being in the red zone. With a little care these chains will go more than 25,000 miles.

this shows 3 1/2 marks to the back of the swingarm on both sides (even)

left side

[url=http://smg.photobucket.com/user/theferret111/media/CB1100%20chain%20adjust%20005_zpsbpve8czm.jpg.html]

right side

[url=http://smg.photobucket.com/user/theferret111/media/CB1100%20chain%20adjust%20006_zpsbm4uyplq.jpg.html]

Also, I learned from the forum folks that the little screw in the center of the oil window turns a tiny windshield wiper inside that cleans the window. Very cool.

Make sure the bike is vertical. As I type this I realize I have never checked it while on the center stand. Does look a wee bit over filled though.

For the chain indicator, as the chain stretches (and you being a good owner, adjust it for proper tension) the part with the color codes will be slid rearward. So the end of the swing arm will look like it is moving towards the red zone. Once in the red zone it's time to consider replacing chain and sprockets.

Side to side play, if excessive, is also an indicator the chain is worn and needs replacing.

If you check the oil window using the manual's instructions it should look different. They specify running the engine, then shut it down and let it sit for 2 or 3 min. (can't remember exactly and I don't have my manual with me), then with the bike level, check the window. It should be between the upper and lower marks. If the bike has been sitting for a long time, more oil has migrated down from the top end and the oil level will be above or at the top of the window.