hi,
I am in the same area on a 1987 1VJ Tenere at the moment in La Paz Bolivia. Yes as you discribed the noise, it is the timing chain.
OK, in Iquique you will find in the free zone a Yamaha importer. He can order the chain for you from Santiago.
Here in La Paz is a Yamaha Importer as well, as the police has XT600E Model 2000 and I am sure he can get you a chain from Japan.
Last option, I carry a used (3000km) timing chain - and of course would be happy to give it to you if yours is really bad.
Klaus, yes my timing chain has now 60.000kms it is not too bad yet - maybe another 20.000kms. Because the first one was good for 100.000km and didn´t make any troube. But you are right after 60.000kms it should be replaced. Thanks again for the hub - I have got now four bearings in to make it stronger and hopefully last for the rest of my trip.
Mika Kuhn from La Paz Bolivia
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