Cam chain tensioner

I have a question for you all. What is it that fails with the stock tensioner? It seems as though it's set up to automatically take up slack and can't back out because of the one way ball bearing arrangement. Does the one way set up fail?

Thanks

DLD

dld:

The Check ball fails, combined with a weaker spring that was under-designed for this engine.

To my knowledge about the only bike Kawasaki ever put into service with a weak tensioner. The rest of them have been pretty bullet proof.

Not all 1300 tensioners are problematic, but because the results of one slipping can ruin anyone's day, it's best to be proactive and install the upgraded tensioner. Many 1300's have provided years of service with their stock tensioners, but it is a little like playing Russian Roulette.

Regards.

T.

I drilled and tapped the end of mine and did the bolt and locking nut affair. cheep option.
i might get around to buying a proper locking tensioner one day.

Thanks guys. Since my KZ1300 engine is in a race car, I better make sure It has a manual tensioner.

DLD

Based on this site I installed a zx11 tensioner - Ratchet type. The part number is 12048-1113 and cut 10mm off the spring. All is smooth and quiet. Bought it off ebay.