[jeremylitts]

My manual does not specify whether the bike should be running when adjusting the timing chain. Seems to me I've read somewhere that it should be running, but I may be wrong. It's a '72 CL450. Thanks to whoever can answer.

 

[tbpmusic]

No, the bike should not be running to adjust the cam chain tensioner.

 

[450roo]

Take your time and get it right, too tight will do as much damage as too loose. The cam chain is the cause of many problems in the 450, almost always because the rider does not check and adjust it correctly or often enough.