Part: Honda CL360 Scrambler / CJ360 / CB360 / CB250G Cam Chain Tensioner & Cam Chain Guide
Note: Does NOT include the top cap
Why You Need This: The original cam chain tensioner is the Achilles Heel of the Honda CL360 / CJ360 / CB360 / CB250G engine; broken cam chain tensioners (sometimes called cam chain slippers) have destroyed many engines over the years. Replacement cam chain tensioners along with its matching cam chain guide from Honda are long gone. Because of this, the best one could do was to find a clean used tensioner hoping that it has some life left in it. One could easily say this is the single most valuable part of the 360 engine. The good news is a new replacement cam chain tensioner (slipper) and cam chain guide for the Honda CL360, CJ360, and CB360 motorcycles are finally here. This has been a long work in progress and we are proud to offer a kit with a brand new reproduction cam chain tensioner and new cam chain guide. These reproduction parts have been tested for the CB250G, CL360, CJ360, and CB360 engines with great success and are ready for installation in your Honda.
History: Honda first released the CB360 and CL360 in 1974, the early models had failure issues with the cam chain tensioners. This failure caused severe engine damage, so much so that a factory recall was put out and a re-designed tensioner was installed. Engines that made it in for the recall were stamped with a pair of dots on the engine serial number to indicate that the recall had been performed. However, not all engines made it in to get the recall nor did every recalled engine get stamped. Thus cam chain tensioner failure has been the weakness of the 360 engine for years. Additionally, the cam chain guide is also commonly broken, worn out, or even missing.
The reality is if you have a Honda CB360, CL360, or CJ360 you should change your original cam chain tensioner and guide, period. It is the peace of mind that we have all been waiting for.
CB250 G Owners: Honda produced a CB250 version of both the CB350 and CB360 motorcycles. This tensioner system is used on the CB250 G motorcycles produced between 1974 - 1976 that use the CB360 engine platform, not the CB250 that was produced between 1968-1973.
Installation Tip: The cam chain tensioner can be replaced with the engine in the bike and with no need to remove the cylinder head. The procedure can be performed in a few hours with basic hand tools. We have made a how-to video guide to bring you through the whole process. This is also a good time to change out your cam chain and engine oil seals if you are doing a total engine overhaul as well. You will need some Three Bond gasket sealer when re-installing the valve cover. Once reassembled the engine will need to have the valves and ignition timing reset.
Additional Information: You can download a copy of the original Honda cam chain tensioner factory service bulletin for more information about the original recall. Also, see the factory service manual page 23 for the proper cam chain adjustment procedure.
