How to Check Kawasaki Vulcan Belt Tension
If you have a belt drive motorcycle like the Kawasaki Vulcan Vaquero, checking the belt tension is an important part of its maintenance schedule.
Watch the video above and follow the steps below to learn how to check the belt tension on a Kawasaki motorcycle.
Tools Needed - Kawasaki Vulcan Vaquero Drive Belt Tension Check
NOTE: We performed this belt tension check on a 2016 Vulcan Vaquero 1700, but you may have similar steps to follow on your motorcycle.
Kawasaki Vulcan Vaquero Belt Tension Check
Step 1. Jack up the back of the motorcycle to get an accurate measurement.
NOTE: The window to look into to check the tension on the Kawasaki Vulcan Vaquero is on the left hand side, behind the exhaust pipe. We removed the exhaust pipe and left-side saddlebag.
Step 2. Check with your motorcycle manufacturer to know precisely what tension you'll need on your gauge. Using the window on your motorcycle, take note of where the belt is located using the marks on either side of the window.
NOTE: The motorcycle belt tension gauge is calibrated to a specific tension. In the case of the Vaquero, the service manual specifies checking with a 45 newton- or 10 pound-gauge.
Step 3. Find the plunger on the tension gauge. The top of the gauge, where the thumb is pushing, will be centered underneath the belt. Push upward on the belt.
NOTE: Look for the plunger to compress to the mark on the plunger shaft while the plunger pushes the belt one notch. It should take 10 lbs. of pressure to push the belt one notch.
Step 4. Push the plunger up onto the belt to flex it.
NOTE: What's being measured here is how much the belt moves with 10 lbs/45 newtons. In this case, the belt moves one notch up. This represents a healthy belt.
Step 5. Rotate the rear wheel a quarter-turn clockwise (backwards) and repeat.
NOTE: If the belt pushes up too far, representing a loose belt, you'll need to loosen the axle and move the wheel back along this guide.
Doing a little maintenance work on your Kawasaki Vulcan motorcycle? Watch the video below to see how to change the oil on a Kawasaki Vaquero 1700.
