Marbled My 900 - Pics

[metalyguitarded]

I noticed the inevitable popping on decel that came with the installation of aftermarket pipes so I decided to marble my 900. I read up on it here and at Gadget's site and decided I'd do it today and document the steps because I saw a number of threads from people looking for clarification or instructions. I took the bike out for a test ride afterwards and although I still noticed some popping, it was significantly reduced. Anyway, here's what I did, spelled out simply so some one like me can follow. I hope you find it helpful.

First, you'll be working on the right side of your motorcycle in the area indicated by the red circle.



The only tools I used were standard pliers, a small bladed screwdriver, and an large allen wrench. No need to open up the air cleaner cover.

On the 900, there's only one hose that runs to the front, right side of the air box. That's the hose you're going to marble.



Take your pliers, squeeze the metal clamp and work it up the hose. Then use the small bladed screwdriver to help break the seal around the inlet tube and push the hose off. Here's where you'll shove that marble.



I used a standard glass 1/2" marble I found at the bottom of my kid's toy box. It's a tight fit, so don't even bother trying anything bigger.



You have to get that marble pushed up the hose about half an inch so the hose will fit back over the inlet tube (blue circle). Because it's so tight, I used a large allen wrench (red arrow) to push the marble up the hose. I suggest putting a shop towel over your front cylinder head cover to prevent any scratches from an wayward allen wrench or whatever you choose to use to push that marble up the hose.



Finally, reattach your hose, secure the clamp and go riding!



I've read that some popping, even after marbling, is to be expected. However, loud backfiring or popping on decel that has not been decreased by this mod is likely an indication of an exhaust leak. Make sure you replaced your exhaust gaskets when you put on your new pipes and recheck the exhaust header connections (retighten) after about 100 miles.

I'm certainly no expert when it comes to bikes but I've borrowed liberally from the knowledge of much more experienced people on this thread and online (thanks Constrictor and Gadget and others) and decided to share my experience with this particular modification. If in doubt, don't do it or hire a professional. In other words, I'm not recommending that you do anything to your bike and any consequences for modifications or attempted modifications are on you.

Happy, safe riding!

[Gnamsu]

Thanks for the very clear instructions... & good job on the pictures!

[greenize]

Great job!!!! Sometimes pics and instructions make
a job alot easier.
Be Safe,
Sue

[jimbo-vn900]

Thanks for this.
This is very nicely done "how-to" with great pictures. I think you should post it in the "how-to" section of the forum as well.

[G]

thanks for sharing the info , very clear instructions & the pics help heaps . i'm sure you have made the marble fitting procedure , a easier task with this post ..

[rabbit]

Beautiful Job! Aa+

[AtlantaDave]

Awesome job and I, for one, will be using this when I do my aftermarket pipes.
Thanks!!!!!!

BTW....cool@ss pipes.

[powday]

Thanks man... you're always a great contributer!

[sweetlilred2002]

ok sorry folks...dumb question...Why are you putting the marble there in the first place? I missed something I think?!?

[Tattoomarc]

wow can't get any clearer than that.. thanks

[Tattoomarc]

Originally Posted by sweetlilred2002

ok sorry folks...dumb question...Why are you putting the marble there in the first place? I missed something I think?!?

It gets rid of the popping on decel by disabeling the reed valves

[sweetlilred2002]

And it won't make it overheat or anything? Sorry, I don't understand the entire mechanics of the bike just the general stuff. I can always rely on you guys for good info though! My friend who is a Mechanic even gets on here sometimes to figure stuff out!

[Tattoomarc]

Originally Posted by sweetlilred2002

And it won't make it overheat or anything? Sorry, I don't understand the entire mechanics of the bike just the general stuff. I can always rely on you guys for good info though! My friend who is a Mechanic even gets on here sometimes to figure stuff out!

no over heating...this prevents air from being released into the exhaust under decel causing the popping.. It is part of the emmision control it won't hurt the bike and is not needed without aftermarket pipes

[sweetlilred2002]

Sweet, thanks! That really helps me out! Just got my Cobra Slashdowns put on last week! They sound good, but have noticed a little popping! I'll have to get out the kids' marbles!lol

[Tattoomarc]

glad I could help

[anamosity]

nicely done, simple easy to follow procedure.

[CheriAnn]

BRAVO!!!!
We really appreciate the time you took for the pictures and VERY clear instructions!!!! Thank you!!!

[metalyguitarded]

Thanks for all the comments. It feels good to give back. I've certainly gotten more from this forum than I've contributed. I'm glad you all appreciated the post.

[dizzyphil]

Metal,..

Thanks for the info, I just got finished putting the marble in and have absolutely no backfires now. I debaffled about two weeks ago and have been having the backfires constantly, very annoying. I thought I was going to have to take off the intake cover but after seeing your 'illustrated' instructions, I easily stopped the annoyance. You are the shiznit for posting the pics along with the instructions! Thanks bro.

[REFUGIO]

Excellant instructions....Exactly the info that will come in handy for a lot of riders who don't know what we mean by marbling.

great job and great pictures