Motoscrubs.com

Hello friends, When I bought my Mototrans 160TS (registered 1965) the chain was drooping very low and I looked for a means to adjust it but couldn't see any way. I tried shortening the chain but two links would make it too short (by a small amount i.e. it won't quite reach!).
As I have no manual to refer to I was hoping you could give me some guidance on:-
1) Sprocket teeth number (FR and RR)
2) Chain size and number of links
3) How to adjust the tension
4) How to remove the rear wheel at all as the anti rotation key into the rear drum seems to prevent rearward movement.

There has to be a straightforwards answer but it is evading me!

Thank you in anticipation

You are missing the draw bolts that should be attached to the end of the swinging arm, these draw the back wheel rearwards to tighten the chain.

You are missing the chain adjusters.



If the hub is tight into the swingarm, remove the wheel and check the bearings and their housings.

When I built my 175 the “correct” length chain was too long and a full link off was too short. I finished up with a cranked “half link”
Ian

My 1963 125 runs with 16/44 sprockets.
Seems quite happy with that. It had a 15 on the front when I bought it, but that was too slow.
Not sure what power ( ) the bike puts out, it has a TS cam and a S piston, so somewhere between 6 and 10 hp.

Duccout wrote:You are missing the draw bolts that should be attached to the end of the swinging arm, these draw the back wheel rearwards to tighten the chain.

Thank you. Any idea where the best place to get some might be?

EBay I think, but possibly Lacey Ducati may have some.

14 Euros from Italy - https://www.ducativintagestore.com/1_pcs_chain_adjuster_for_15mm_axles_for_ducati_singles_narrow_and_wide_case

Or £25 from the Netherlands - https://www.ducaticlassics.com/ducati/062280050/chain-adjuster

I bought mine from Laurie Richardson. He makes lots of different parts in stainless steel at low prices. Based in UK. Email him laurie37@ntlworld.com. for price.
I will post a copy of his price list in next few days, might be helpful to others.

Price list for Laurie Richardson. I have no connection with this gentleman other than buying his products. Good service at good prices. Worth printing a copy for future use.