Yet Another Engine Noise Question

[khollister]

OK - I know, they're noisy. However, I have a particular noise that is starting to make me crazy after reading a bunch of cam chain tensioner posts. So at the risk of getting the standard responses, here goes:

It is a tapping/ticking noise (easily passes for tappet or lifter noise). It seems to be originating from the top half of the rear cylinder (front cylinder does not make the noise). It also is much more pronounced on the left side. My first take on this is that it is NOT cam chain slap because it's on the wrong side for the back cylinder - according to the parts breakdown drawings, the cam chain is on the right side for the #2 cylinder (also where the tensioner is). That makes me think it is an intake valve lifter.

Here's the weird part - I would swear that up till now the noise was louder cold and got a little quieter when warm. I just disconnected the ICS solenoids, thinking they might be part of the noise, and when I first started the bike - no noise. After about 15 seconds, it started again. Shut the bike down for a few minutes, restarted and no noise even after 2-3 minutes. Shut down, restart again - quiet for about a minute and then the noise started, but not quite as loud.

Any ideas? If it's just a sticky lifter I'm not too concerned. If it is the cam chain, I'm more concerned.

Thanks

Keith

[daddo]

The first thing I would do is change the oil and clean the screen. I would use a lighter oil for the winter (10w40) if your bike uses it. Running some "seafoam" in the tank wouldn't hurt and making sure your gas is the proper octane.

[khollister]

Originally Posted by daddo

The first thing I would do is change the oil and clean the screen. I would use a lighter oil for the winter (10w40) if your bike uses it. Running some "seafoam" in the tank wouldn't hurt and making sure your gas is the proper octane.

Been there, done that. Running Rotella 5W-40 synthetic, 93 octane gas and the occassional blast of SF.

[2WheelFun]

A cam chain would make more of a slapping noise so it may be a sticky lifter. While I don't use SeaFoam in my "oil" the directions states that you can use for about 100 miles prior to an oil change to clean out carbon and gum inside the engine. That would be a personal call so you'll have to decide if you want to do that. I use Seafoam in the gas...just never have put it in the oil yet. Also...some use Marvel Mystery Oil and claim it helps clear up sticky lifters. If you use either product be sure to follow the directions carefully.