How to install front sprocket? --1986 xt 600
 

I am replacing the front sprocket (chain and rear sprocket as well) on my recently purchased xt 600, but have run into some confusion. The previous sprocket was worn down so far that the chain was wearing on the lock-plate and bolts. Also, the lip on the sprocket was facing out from the engine.

New sprocket in hand, I have found posts regarding other bikes that indicates the lip should face inwards toward the engine. I haven't found any xt people who say one way or the other. I have a feeling that the sprocket could have been on backwards, but I need an expert's opinion.

Thanks, and this is a great forum!

You will probably have to wait for the European XT gurus to wake up. On posts like this it usually helps to put the model code (on the frame somewhere ie. 4PT) the colour etc as well as the year. When it comes to parts you also need to be really sure you have the correct new part (pattern parts are often supplied incorrectly or meant for a slightly different model). May be best to go genuine Yamaha if in doubt. On my TTR/TTRE the front sprocket has the spacer against the engine side of the splined shaft but I am sure you will shortly recieve some more informed answers. Good luck.

my 2003 has the lip faced inwards. Does it line up with the chain and rearsprocket that way? :)

Yep.....lip is supposed to be facing inward.....
Here's how my '88 XT6 looks......:wink3:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1.../IMG_12221.jpg

Thanks a million! After installing the sprocket, there is a little free play in it. I've read this is part of the design meant to help the front sprocket align with the rear sprocket better. Is this so?

Yep......they're supposed to have a little free play.....
Don't think the chain would last more than a week, IF there wasn't any.:wink3:

time to hit the road then!:mchappy:

lock plate disintegration
 

well, I put around 60 miles on the new chain and sprockets when the bike died. The ignition coil is bad so I got a new one on the way. upon inspection of the front sprocket, I noticed that the lock-plate was showing some wear. Closer inspection revealed a lot of wear... the splines on the countershaft were entirely through the lock-plate and the entire thing was clinging on by a few slivers of metal.
Any ideas as to why this happened?

The chain had stretched some, perhaps allowing the front sprocket to wiggle too much. The countershaft doesn't appear to be worn. the sprocket is brand new and looks fine. Did I get a bad part? opinions please!

http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...1&d=1280196139

That could very well be the result of a stretched chain & having the front sprocket on backwards.:wink3:

on the output shaft you have (large splines with lockwasher) make sure you ALWAYS buy a yamaha front sprocket (yes i know theyre stupidly expensive) as pattern ones are not accurately machined and will wear the splines on the shaft leading to excessive sprocket play. it happend to one of ours.......