Drive chain adjuster / rear axle holder for Honda CB450, CL450 Scrambler / CB500T, CB550F motorcycles
Over time, the original drive chain adjusters on your vintage Honda CB450, CL450 Scrambler / CB500T, CB550F can become worn, rusted, or even stripped, with some missing essential hardware altogether. These adjusters are located on either side of the rear axle, mounted to the swingarm, and are crucial for keeping your chain properly aligned and tensioned, helping ensure your bike remains safe and reliable to ride.
Our replacement chain adjusters offer a clean, solid foundation for precise chain tensioning and safe rear wheel alignment. Adjusters are sold individually - 2 are needed per bike, be sure to order two if you are replacing both sides.
Note: The replacement m8 adjuster screw uses a 13mm wrench size head compared to the OEM Honda screw that used 12mm wrench sized head. The lock nut is still 12mm wrench size. Be sure to add a 13mm wrench to your on-bike tool kit for making adjustments on the go.
Remove the cotter pin and loosen the axle nut (jam nut). Slide out the rear axle to remove your old adjusters. Ensure the adjustment screws and locknuts on the new adjusters are backed out fully. Install the new adjusters on the swingarm, align with the wheel spacers, and reinsert the axle. Reinstall the axle nut, but do not fully tighten yet. Tighten the adjuster screws to set the correct chain slack – aim for 20mm (¾") of total up and down movement in the drive chain. Use the reference marks on the swingarm to ensure both adjusters are set equally for proper rear wheel alignment. While holding the adjustment screw in place with a wrench, tighten the locknut against the adjuster body. Torque the axle nut to spec using your Honda service manual and install a fresh cotter pin.
