Ok gents it's dialed and shifting very well!
Even better than with the shorter chain.

There is just enough b tension screw to achieve and ideal line up. Chain is set at the max +6 sizing on the right image per the manual. This is the visual how it look.
Goes against all my prior knowledge in my head so thanks to those who persisted with me...I should have done this first thing as recommended.

This should also serve as a big heads up to anyone who can't get their b tension set perfectly...go screw direct to the frame.

 

Sorry about digging up an old thread, but this is exactly what I wanted to ask about

I've done plenty of work on hardtails, this is my first FS :12 speed m7100 SLX kit

On gear one there's so much chain sag it rests on the stays. This is with the recommended 6 links as screen shot earlier in this thread.

I realize we're talking about chain growth thru shock travel, but this seems kind of extreme to me

Should I size the chain down by 2 links or does this look right?

 

Sorry about digging up an old thread, but this is exactly what I wanted to ask about

I've done plenty of work on hardtails, this is my first FS :12 speed m7100 SLX kit

On gear one there's so much chain sag it rests on the stays. This is with the recommended 6 links as screen shot earlier in this thread.

I realize we're talking about chain growth thru shock travel, but this seems kind of extreme to me

Should I size the chain down by 2 links or does this look right?

View attachment 2006633

check b screw first, if it's correct I'd remove 2 links

 

I'm assuming that even without sag, the chain on gear 12 will look relatively normal with maybe a slight sag. Is that reasonable?

Fixed above.

And no, properly sized and adjusted, the derailleur should hold the chain pretty straight.

 

Fixed above.

And no, properly sized and adjusted, the derailleur should hold the chain pretty straight.

Thank you, and thank you

I'll go back and take another look at things later today. Appreciate the help.

 

Just to get more understand, the Shimano 12 speed chain length is measured while the suspension is fully compressed (sagged) ?

 

Nope, measure it unsprung but it's different for fs and hardtails.