I have an 18 hp Rancher and have had the same drive chain adjustment problem. I use a 18mm open ended Sidchrome (quality.) i suggest as I hve done loosen the adjusting bolt head out a few mm and clean with an aeorsol cleaner. get some course valve lapping past and feed it in between the clamped areas as much as possible. Re tighten the chains as per usual and keep mineral oils away as much as possible. use a silicone lube on your chains. i have a rancher was 18hp now for 7 yrs and with the friction drive and solid rear axle doing 10km/hr its hard to beat these machines for value for money. pity Rover has taken them off production. (It is still possible to get parts though) I have now fitted a 25hp TWM V twin and also replaced belt tension springs with heavier ones to handle the extra grunt. I can say with 2000hrs experience that the the Rover Rancher is a great machine.
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Last edited by gruntyrancher; 07/02/11 09:06 AM. Reason: Add Photo