Timing Problems?

OK, so lately the bike just won't tune right - sync's fine, idles good when warm.

Colortune does NOT react well at all.

I am having a bit more noise than a few weeks ago from the motor, chain-ish sound. I have never checked my ignition timing either.

When the bike is cold, it runs kind of rough, chugs still coming off idle.
That alone might be the colortune problem, because it's blue almost all the way out, but it DOES react to screw movement and when it's nice and hot it idles great. But cold idle is a bit rough.

Wondering what the symptoms of ignition timing and cam timing would be.
Also - I have to try to find it on the XJCD but any quick tips on how to check my ignition timing, and also what is the easiest way to get those little nuts on the auto tensioner loose? They are way in there... socket? Too short?

Thanks in advance. I hope this clears it up. Otherwise, if I can't get down to have Rick look at the bike, then it's causing way too much frustration to deal with anymore.

 

This is my thought process on the cam timing - if my chain is loose, the intake would be the one taking the brunt of the issues with the slack.

This would cause my need for richer mixtures at idle, and ALSO explain why once I get off idle, it smooths out a bit.

Would also explain the bit of noise I am having now.

I really hope this is the last leg...

Please advise on ignition timing check and auto tensioner adjustment tips.

Thanks guys... I have gone so far I really hope this does the trick.

 

Just looked at my service manual, ignition timing is on the same page as cam chain tension! haha.

Now if you guys could just give me a tip on how to get the nut/bolt loose easier, that would be awesome.

 

Spray some deep creep or something like that on it, and let it sit for a couple hours.

 

Sorry I meant to explain that a bit better - not to loosen it easier - I need to get IN to it. It does not look like I'll have enough room to move a socket around in there. Do I need a really long extension to get it from the top with the gas tank off? Or will a ratchet work in those confined spots?

 

does yours have an auto tensioner? if so, i think you're aiming to unbolt the wrong bolt. it's on the back of the head, 90 degrees from the one you're looking at. give me a call when you're heading over there to work on it. if i'm around, i'll show you how i did mine.