Getting a cam chain tensioner upgraded on the Harley Davidson Twin Cam 88 from the dealership or a repair shop often costs a lot. So, you can also DIY upgrade as the cost of DIY upgrades is noticeably lower.
So, how much does the Harley Davidson Twin Cam 88 cam chain tensioner upgrade cost? Dealerships usually charge about $1,500-$2,000 for a cam chain tensioner upgrade on a Harley Davidson Twin Cam 88. Local repair shops may charge about $1,000-$1,200. For DIY upgrades, the cost may go down to $800-$1,000.
Let’s see which tools are required for the upgrade and break down the cost.
 Why Should I Upgrade My Harley Davidson Cam 88 Cam Chain Tensioner?
Here are a few reasons why you need a cam chain tensioner upgrade.
- Spring-operated tensioners put too much pressure on the cam chain in all stages.
- Tensioner pad material in old cam chain tensioners isn’t durable, so they wear faster.
- The oil pump has lower flow with old cam chain tensioners.
Harley Davidson Twin Cam 88 Cam Chain Tensioner Upgrade Cost at Dealership
Due to the sharp cam chains on the Twin Cam 88 engines, tensioner shoes require durable upgrades. The process of upgrading the cam chain tensioner takes some time and a lot of experience.
Harley Davidson dealerships will charge about $1,500-$2,000 depending on factors like the model, manufacturing year, tensioner condition, and more. According to dealerships, the charge can be broken down like below.
| Components | Cost |
| Hydraulic Cam Chain Tensioner Kit | $500-$600 |
| Spacer Kit | $100-$120 |
| Cam Service Kit | $80-$100 |
| Drive Gear Retention Kit | $50-$80 |
| Additional Replacements (if necessary) | $200-$300 |
| Labor Charge | $400-600 |
Remember, the list of required tools for different models can vary. For example, you won’t need the spacer kit if you have a Softail, Touring, or 99 Dyna model. So, the cost may go down a bit. On the other hand, there can be some additional costs for pushrods, tappets, etc.
The cost of replacing or upgrading a similar component may also vary greatly. For example, Harley Tri Glide problems may cost differently than Softail or Touring problems.
How Much Does Twin Cam 88 Cam Chain Tensioner Upgrade Cost at Local Repair Shops?
If you want to avoid Harley Davidson dealerships to cut some costs, independent repair shops may be a good place to go. In these shops, the price of the required tools is usually lower than at the dealership.
You also have the option to buy the parts from your desired sources and let mechanics upgrade the cam chain tensioner.
Parts Cost
I searched a lot for the most cost-effective tools out there. You may get cam chain tensioner kits at as low as $240. But if you want a high-quality tensioner kit, you may need to pay about $300-$350.
The same proportion is true for other tools. For example, you will get spacer kits or cam service kits at less than half the price dealerships charge. Even if you buy high-quality tools yourself, the overall cost will be two-thirds of what you would spend at the dealership.
Labor Cost
Dealerships usually have certified technicians, and they charge a lot. It takes a mechanic about four hours to complete the upgrade. And the rate is about $100-$140 per hour. So, the labor cost can go much higher.
But independent shops charge about $80 per hour for labor. You will save about $100-$300 on labor costs if you go to the local repair shops.
Besides, if mechanics find other problems while upgrading the cam chain tensioner, be aware of those costs. For example, check the Harley Davidson drive belt replacement cost.
Twin Cam 88 Cam Chain Tensioner DIY Upgrade Cost
With some experience and the right tools, it should be possible for riders to upgrade the cam chain tensioner on their own. But in this case, you need some additional tools. Let me explain.
Required Tools for DIY Upgrade
Dealerships or repair shops usually have the following tools that you may not.
- Manual or automatic screwdrivers
- Automatic wrenches
- Allen keys
- Lubricant
- Clean rags
Parts Cost
While upgrading the cam chain tensioner on your own, you should do a bit of market research to collect the parts at an affordable price. Compare the prices at different shops and check online. This way, you can save some more money.
The total cost of the parts may not go over $1,000, including the tools I mentioned above.
Labor Cost
You don’t have to spend anything on labor costs in this case. But if you call one of your friends for help, treating them will incur a small cost. However, a DIY upgrade is the best option if you have the experience and want to save money.
Benefits of Upgrading Twin Cam 88 Cam Chain Tensioner
After upgrading to a hydraulic cam chain tensioner, you will enjoy the following benefits.
- Pressure on the cam chain matches the RPM, so there is no unnecessary strain on the tensioner.
- The tensioner pad lasts for longer.
- Oil pump efficiency increases by up to 10% after the cam chain tensioner upgrade.
FAQs
Check answers to some commonly asked questions regarding cam chain tensioner upgrade cost.
Q: How frequently should I change the cam chain tensioners?
A: Good-quality hydraulic tensioners should run for about 80,000 to 100,000 miles. If you don’t ride your Harley too much, tensioners will last for a fairly long time.
Q: Are hydraulic cam chain tensioners worth the cost?
A: Of course. Hydraulic tensioners have a higher bolt load tolerance. Plus, these have multiple actuators to maintain tension in various positions. Even though the cost seems to be a bit high, it is totally worth it.
Q: Should I save money using mechanical tensioners on Twin Cam 88?
A: Hydraulic tensioners are more efficient and durable than mechanical tensioners. Though mechanical tensioners may cost less, they won’t be worth it in the long run. So, you shouldn’t choose mechanical tensioners over hydraulic ones.
Final Words
Twin Cam 88 engines were a big hit at their time. But they had a serious problem regarding the cam chain tensioner. It used to get shredded quickly, and users needed an upgrade. If you still have one in your collection and want to upgrade the tensioner, know the Harley Davidson Twin Cam 88 cam chain tensioner upgrade cost first.
Then, you can weigh the advantages and drawbacks of the upgrade process. I suggest taking the bike to the dealership for the best upgrade possible if you have the budget. But if you want to cut some costs, going to a local repair shop or doing it on your own is the solution.