Advice regarding Drive sprocket backlash

[Trevor]

Hi all

Just thought I would for some advice. I am new to Ducati as you may know but have just cleared out the shed so I can now get on with maintaining the ST2. I have read a lot here and it is a great source of information, but I would like to know about drive sprocket backlash. I have removed and cleaned the chain and sprockets and the teeth are not badly worn at all, no fishtail and the chain looks old but is free running without tight spots. But the final driveshaft has a little wear and thus backlash on the drive sprocket. I was thinking of upping the rear by one tooth and keeping the drive as is, but maybe I should change all three and lessen the backlash.

Also the drive sprocket lock washer with the two cap screws seems to be well worn regarding the spline grooves, is this to be expected?

I would appreciate any comments.

Trevor

[OogieBoogie]

Hi Trevor,

Are you saying that your gearbox output shaft's splines are worn, or splines in the drive sprocket? I suspect that there's always a little movement between the sprocket and shaft.

As far as the locking plate goes they do seem to wear, I'd say if in doubt replace it.

I tend to be a bit paranoid about the sprocket retaining system since the lad that fitted my last rear tyre said 'Your chain's got a real bad tight spot mate' and when I checked it, it was actually that the 2 bolts retaining the sprocket had half unscrewed themselves puushing the front sprocket out of alignment with the rear one.

Now I check those suckers every time I clean the bike.