I want to replace the cam chain on a K1100 but am unable to find much info using the search function nor can I find a you tube video.
Both the Clymers and BMW Repair manual refer to the special BMW tool 11 3 700 - camshaft setting tool - in the cam chain installation section but I suspect this is only used after the camshafts have been removed. How important is this tool and can the job be done without it, whether or not the camshafts have been removed.
Hopefully, the valves clearances will not need adjusting so no need to remove the camshafts but best to be prepared for that while I am in there.
Please advise ???

To do the chain you don't need that tool, it holds the adjuster back so the chain can go back onto the sprockets but you will have the adjuster off the engine and wont need to use it. I cleaned the adjuster and put it back together then used a wire twitch to keep it compressed till the chain was on the sprockets and tension rails then cut the wire and pulled it out.
Actually duck has a bit about doing the cams using a screwdriver and a string to hold the tensioner on his site.

The tool in question is for locking the camshafts in position.

But that won't be needed either, use the alignement marks on the crank and sprockets.

Should have known that was the tool in question. I have one of those if needed I can post it down.
Inge I think you are a bit like TWB and the numbers are burnt onto the eproms of your brain. Does it go sizzle when they are burnt on

Why do you want to replace the cam chain? Are you some sort of masochist? 

RicK G wrote:Should have known that was the tool in question. I have one of those if needed I can post it down.

Thanks Rick, I will see how I go without it first and if I get into trouble will let you know
Inge indicates it is not necessary and he hasn't steered us wrong yet

RicK G wrote:Inge I think you are a bit like TWB and the numbers are burnt onto

Nah, had to look it up.......but I've had a idea after reading the first post.



If TS is afraid that the cams could move during the process, you can use
some of white zip ties to keep them in position.

I'm quite shure that Blakey would be very happy to send you a some,
he must have more than plenty of them.

duck wrote:Why do you want to replace the cam chain? Are you some sort of masochist? 

Same opinion: no need to change before a long, long,very long mileage. 2 or 300 000.

Inge K. wrote:

RicK G wrote:Inge I think you are a bit like TWB and the numbers are burnt onto

Nah, had to look it up.......but I've had a idea after reading the first post.



If TS is afraid that the cams could move during the process, you can use
some of white zip ties to keep them in position.

I'm quite shure that Blakey would be very happy to send you a some,
he must have more than plenty of them.

Inge makes a good point.  Only white zip ties are suitable for this task.  Black ones won't cut it.

Finally white zip ties have the approval of the forum...brilliant idea.

92KK 84WW Olaf wrote:Finally white zip ties have the approval of the forum...brilliant idea.

Only where they can't be seen when in use.  

Bill