I am considering a buying TE610 (06-09), are there any issues/problems that relate to this model that I need to be aware of when buying used? Thanks, Singletrak
The Timing chain goes quickly, so it's probably worth pulling the tensioner and counting the 'clicks' on it. Search google for 610 timing chain and there's a bazilion pages to describe the procedure. Everything else I can think of are just general maint. things, and things to change for setup etc. not 610 specific things.AFAIK there are no deal breaker known problems that are gonna cause an implosion like on some other bikes. I mean check the wiring for chafe and oil for metal and the like, but that's about it.
The rear chain/sprockets should also be looked at as some have experienced rapid wear. Pay attention to whether typical upgrades have been done. Power up/ exhaust can, front sprocket guard, skid plate, headlight/plate are worth several hundred dollars new and most riders on this forum have done all those things to their bikes. An aftermarket seat is also a plus if you are doing any road miles. As with any modern performance 4 stroke, good maintenance is valuable. Records of frequent oil changes are a good sign. On the other hand the 610 isnt nearly as high maintenance as say a CRF450 Honda, most KTMs, or other more race oriented bikes and it is a much better off road rig than something like an XR650 while still working well on the street.
There are significant differences between those years you should be aware of. Please note that your ad in the classifieds specified 2005-2009, you may want to change that? 2005 - not 50 state street legal 2006 - 2009 - 50 state street legal 2005 - 2007 - carburetor 2008 - 2009 - efi I've been talking to a few folks, and it is possible the 2006 cam chains last longer than the 2007s, I've no data on the 2008/9 610s.
Well, I dunno how it relates to others but my '08 needed a Cam Chain at like 7k and I think that's fairly typical.
I have an 06 and have never had a timing chain problem. My first timing chain was done at 10k only because I drowned my bike and bent the rod. There was nothing wrong with it. This new chain has now lasted 15k. What are you guys doing? Maybe its because you always check the clicks! Leave the bloody thing alone! Stu
You cannot leave it alone when there is a ever growing growling sound from your engine. It is a slow process so it sneaks up on you if you are not checking the clicks, or wearing ear plugs. The chain stretches and eats into the reed valve cover, making lots of filling in your oil (as seen on the magnet). So much quieter with the replacement chain. Second chain last much longer. First lasted only 6K miles. Was able to save the reed valve cover in time. I avoided checking it prior to a Moab 2 week trip last spring. After all, what I do not know won't hurt me right?, If I knew it was time for a replacement, could I live with driving it another 1,000 miles in the remote desert on such a grand trip as Moab? Finally I checked it one week before departure, I had to know. I had already checked the valves, changed the oil and coolant. Sure enough, the chain was at 11 clicks and was grinding the reed valve cover. It was making increasing louder noise over time that I could not locate by ear to any certain spot. Another 1000 miles in the desert would have surely destroyed the reed valve itself. You have to check it, just like checking your drive chain or tires, or changing your oil filter, checking your valve clearances. It is relatively easy to do. Does not take long. You might be lucky and no repair needed. If repair is needed, it is a weekend job for a first timer as long as you have the flywheel puller and your water pump gaskets and chain ready. - Mike
does anyone know the timing chain problem has been recitified on the new 630 engine now with double overhead cams?
Also look at the head gasket on them especially if it is an 06 saw many leaking head gaskets for some reason.
There are not many 2001-2005 610s imported that I have seen or heard of. There is a Pre-2000 610/570 thread or 2 around that may give you an idea. I think there were only a handful of '03s imported.
