Chain Kit
From Unofficial Zero Manual
Zero offers some chain kit options that include front and rear sprockets and a 520 DID X-ring chain.
- Enhanced Chain Kit for FX/FXS models across all 2013+ years.
- For 2017 models, a chain conversion kit is referenced as part 10-08127 (unconfirmed).
- Motivation
- Chain vs belt comparison
- Maintenance
- Motorcycle chain drives are common, so generic maintenance can be quite effective:
- There's some vague agreement that for chain slack, 0.8-1.2in of deflection is appropriate.
- Chains tend to loosen as they wear, so a little tighter at the start is somewhat helpful.
- Zero's swingarm pivot is concentric/aligned with the motor shaft and countersprocket, so there's no need to check for tension changes as the swingarm squats.
- Zero's kit chain does not have O-rings, and many prefer a chain with O-rings for longer lifespan and quieter and smoother operation, so changing the chain is recommendable.
- References
Install
- Overview
- This replaces the Drive Belt with a chain.
- This installs a chain guide on the underside of the swingarm.
- This replaces the pulley sprockets with toothed sprockets.
- Video Guide
- Tools
- Center lift.
- 27mm socket for the rear axle nut.
- 3mm Allen key.
- 10mm Allen key socket
- Ensure at least 1" depth and a ⅜" drive sufficient to handle swingarm pivot bolt torques.
- 15mm socket wrench (S models).
- 13mm socket wrench (X models).
- Torque wrench capable of setting 75ft-lbs and driving the 27mm socket and 10mm Allen key.
- 2012-2013:
- 2.5mm Allen key.
- 24mm socket wrench.
- (2013-2017?) 6mm Allen key and wrench to remove the rear sprocket pulley from the rear wheel.
- (2018?) T45 Torx bit and wrench to remove the rear sprocket pulley from the rear wheel.
- Prerequisites
- Recommendations
- For any chain fitment, wait until running the chain over the sprockets (and probably through the guide) before unlinking the chain and fitting a master link for its final length.
- Any mistakes in length estimation require more chain tool use which is just adding risk.
- Steps
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Disclaimer: TBD, but the OEM should supply instructions
- References