2016 RT Belt Tensioner

[Bangorbob]

I have a vibration starting around 68 mph. I have looked online for Lamonsters' tensioner. Out of stock. I just wondering if anyone has any insight on when these might become available again? It appears from reading that the 1st thing to try is lower the tension to around 160 lbs. Not quite sure how easy it is to do.

[RICZ]

My two cents worth....
I too have a belt vibe around 70ish mph, so I go faster or slower and it's gone. It's a very weak vibration because, like many here, I eased the tension to 160 rear wheel on the floor and 140 off the floor. Readings are from a Krikit II. You might want to do this and then see if you really need the tensioner (it's really a damper).

[Mikey]

And please do not take this the wrong way, but how do your tires look, could it be from the front a tire a very little out of balance or cupped just a little? People feel a vibration and they want to jump to a dampener, don't get me wrong, if you want another thing to watch and maintain, have at it! How many miles have you been on this bike and you have no problems thus far!! Right? Me, I don't go 70 unless I am trying to pass some one on the highway, and I don't like the highway! Have a good weekend!!!

[RICZ]

With less than 4K miles, I had to get rid of the Kendas as they were vibrating so much and would not hold a balance. Really crappy tires. I replaced them with Federal Formoza tires - they are far superior in every way to Kendas.

[larryd]

I my opinion this outfit makes the BEST and MOST TROUBLE FREE belt tensioner AND they are also a site sponsor...No need to replace roller & bearings...No damaged belts from failures...larryd

https://www.smoothspyder.com/belt-tensioners/

[redrazor]

I have a vibration starting around 68 mph. I have looked online for Lamonsters' tensioner. Out of stock. I just wondering if anyone has any insight on when these might become available again? It appears from reading that the 1st thing to try is lower the tension to around 160 lbs. Not quite sure how easy it is to do.

My highway vibration was between 63 and 66 mph. Felt like I was riding on a washboard pavement, even on a smooth highway. Installed Lamonsters idler pulley about 2 months ago; and NO Vibrations up to high speeds at all. Only took about an hour to install on our 2014 RTL. Go for it. Best $100 spent yet.

[BajaRon]

These are Vibration Dampeners. Your belt tension comes from tensioners at the axle. These wheels add so little tension to the belt, it is not necessary to re-tension the belt after installation.

It would probably be best to set the belt tension that you desire before getting a vibration dampener. But whatever you do. Get a dampener with a 'Speed Rated Bearing'. Generally, it is better to go with a bigger wheel to reduce bearing RPM, which is the thing that destroys your dampener, and then your belt. At speed these bearings (on a 1" wheel) can approach 30,000 RPM. A 1.5", or even 1.25" wheel can make a big reduction in RPM.

[Bangorbob]

Thanks to all. My mistake calling it a tensioner vs dampener. I take it you have to loosen the rear axle bolts that are torques to 1 million ft lbs. Correct?

[BLUEKNIGHT911]

Thanks to all. My mistake calling it a tensioner vs dampener. I take it you have to loosen the rear axle bolts that are torques to 1 million ft lbs. Correct?

YES, make sure it's loose enough so the Adjusters won't be damaged .... RICZ use the correct amount of tension ..... I would use 1/4 turn at a time ..... good luck .... Mike

[Bangorbob]

Thanks. I will check the tension today. I did buy a kickit and checked a couple times. I will just have to man up and have my wife break loose the nuts (axle). I appears that around 160 is where the belt should be for best overall results.

[RICZ]

Thanks. I will check the tension today. I did buy a kickit and checked a couple times. I will just have to man up and have my wife break loose the nuts (axle). I appears that around 160 is where the belt should be for best overall results.

It would be best to adjust the belt with the rear wheel off the floor so you can rotate it to also make sure the belt is tracking properly. There should be a gap the thickness of a credit card between the belt and the rear pulley flange. There are YouTube vids showing the process. Doing it with the wheel off the floor, you want a Krikit reading of 140. Before tightening the axle, pound or kick the wheel forward, so you know it's seated hard against the adjusters. Only rotate the wheel in a forward traveling direction.