Need advice, new to quads. Will this work to measure chain tension: place a straight edge from front to rear sprocket and measure between top edge of the chain and bottom of the straight edge. Should the tension be measured while pressing down on the chain?
Thanks in advance for the advice.

 

With no weight on the quad, you should have 1" of free play in the middle of the chain. Grab it with two fingers and lift up and down to see the play.

 

Try 3/16 to 1/4 inch of play. 1 inch is way too much. Read the book or the sticker on the chain guard.

 

Thnaks for the advice. Book says 1/8 - 3/8 inches of deflection at tightest portion of chain. I don't understand if that means slack in the chain without pushing down on the chain or when you apply pressure to the chain in a downward direction.

 

if you're riding hard,no play at all is just fine or just a very little cauze polaris linkage/chain loose is order of the day always when riding,it must be a check after each run,when using an aftermarket chain tensioner the task become solved longer about the chain deflection,it keep consistent tension as well...

 

Sorry your right 1/8 to 3/8. Measure the slack without stretching the chain. Its not that critical as the other poster said it loosens quite quickly. I just snug mine up because when i tighten the bolts it seems to pull it in a little and gives it a little play. Just dont let it get too loose. That spells disaster.