Chain Tensioner Improving stock tensioner

mtb29

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Oct 20, 2014
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Strengthen stock tensioner by adding flat steel 1/8" x 1 1/2" to stock tensioner as shown, flat steel is held to seat stay by "U" bolt.
Hacksaw, file and drill can do it.
Should keep pulley from being sucked into the wheel.
Items can be found at any hardware store.
 

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The tension roller itself can be replaced, too, very cheaply. You can use a 5/16" (or 3/8") clevis as the axle, use hard plastic washers as the chain interface surface, and use 2" stainless steel washers as the guides. The clevis works so well because you can fix it into place with a lynch pin. No way it can come loose.
 
I like using skateboard wheels for rollers. you don't need guides if your chain line is right
 
Yes, I an see that this would be most excellent. Great idea. When I am scrounging around for parts and pieces I will try to find one or two.

Thanks!
 
Before I switched to jackshaft drive, I eliminated the tensioner completely. For me, it was once less thing to go wrong, and once less thing to rob power to the drive wheel. You just have to keep the rear axle tightened up well, but you have to regardless of whether you have a tensioner or not.
 
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