Thanks for the info.  I have the Honda service manuel and in it it clearly 
shows an alternator chain, in a very hard to get location.  Sadly it was a 
Honda shop that I took it to and they quoted 2k for the job.  
On Nov 30, 2011, at 11:33 AM, surfswab wrote:

> No experience with that particular issue here either, but I like to
> study up on such things.
> 
> Judging from the exploded view of the alternator assembly for your
> bike, I agree with Allen that the alternator looks like it's driven by
> a shaft, not a chain.
> 
> If you are hearing chain noise (sounds like marbles rattling around
> the inside of the engine), it's more likely a cam chain tensioner
> issue, caused by a weakened spring that maintains the tension.  That's
> a known Honda issue.
> 
> If I'm correct (and I could very well not be), that could be a
> blessing.  According to the exploded view I looked at, most of the
> alternator assembly parts for your bike have been discontinued.
> 
> If it's the cam chain tensioner, that's repairable, but I can't tell
> you how.  You'll have to get a Clymer or Honda service manual and
> study up on the procedure.  I'd be wary of what your shop tells you.
> It doesn't sound like they specialize in Hondas.
> 
> You can see the exploded views of all the assemblies on your bike at
> this link:
> 
> http://www.servicehonda.com
> 
> To navigate to your bike, click Easy OEM Lookup/Motorcycles/Honda,
> then the year and make of your bike.
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> On Nov 29, 10:34 pm, ej <[email protected]> wrote:
>> Hey all,
>> have had my 83 cb550sc for about 15years now, I don't own a car so I
>> ride 365.  well the bike is making noise and the shop says it is
>> alternator chain, has anyone replaced one? How hard is it? what
>> happens if I don't replace it?  Any help would appreciated.  I am at
>> 57k miles and want to keep riding.  thanks.
> 
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