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Hey guys,

I bought a 98 Superhawk about a month ago with 25K on it. I was going 60 on the highway last week when the engine started making terrible noises. I drove it back home (about 3/4 mile) and shut it off. The Honda dealer picked it up and took a look at it. Looks like my front cam chain tensioner went. They said the bad thing is they can't get the cam to turn so chances are it may have bent the valves. They want $500 additional to tear it down to tell me exactly what damage was caused and what parts it needs. I paid $2300 for the bike and as the mechanic told me it's a really clean bike for its age. I'm in a dilemma...do I fix it at the dealer (potentially $2500 - $3000 worst case), find a used engine and have the dealer swap it, sell it as is, or part it out? I planned on keeping it for a long time but I can't afford to drop $2500 on getting it fixed right now. Is there anyone close to the Appleton, WI are on here that could rebuild for less? Thanks for the help.

Look for a front head to transplant on if piston isn't damaged.

and budget for some manual tensioners Krieger Cam Chain Tensioners

Dang that is horribly bad luck! Used motor intact is how I would go. They come up here on classifieds. Hope you get this solved without terrible expense.

Sorry you had that experience.

What is your mechanical ability level? I agree with wicky about partial replacement instead of rebuild.

For the money you are talking a perfect motor is like 6-700$. I did a motor swap on mine. Not for this reason but just an option.

Definitely look for a whole motor with a clean lineage. Put manual cam chain tensioners (CCTs) in it to avoid this problem in future. Believe me, to rebuild a motorcycle engine properly you'll put a lot of time and money into it. There's a chance a used engine will have some 'hidden' issues. But this risk is worthwhile, IMHO, versus the certainty of the cost of a rebuild. You can mitigate your risk by doing due diligence in analyzing the source of the used engine, and going with someone who presents a reputable demeanor. I don't know that you'll get much of a guarantee from anyone selling a used engine, but if you investigate a little, you can usually ascertain sellers who are a good bet, and those that are 'undefined' in terms of their honesty and integrity.

Alan

Alan