VF500F 1986 clicking from right side crankcase cover

have a clicking from the right side of my crankcase cover. definitely not valves (checked twice). used a stethiscope and pinpointed it to the front right side of the crankcase cover. the clicking really starts getting loud at around 4000-5500 rpm. I also checked my cam chains which seem fine. Does anyone know what this could be?

 

Remove the right side engine cover & check the clutch spring bolts are all tight & look for signs of scuffing on the inside of the cover ! Assuming the engine runs OK apart from the new noise, it's likely to be something in there. Also check the camchain tensioners & the camchain guides !

 

It runs pretty well. while its warming up and i rev it smokes a little. When i used the stethoscope i could hear the tapping closer to the starter/whatever else is over there. definitely not top end and the sound isnt in the center of the front end of the engine, ruling out the cam chain. I looked through my FSM and tried to find instructions for bearing changes. Thought maybe the starter clutch was stuck or a spun a starter or starter clutch bearing. I still need to sync the carbs too (not opening it up until i do that). I just rebuilt my carbs too. Not sure why its smoking a little. Maybe built up crankcase moisture.. I did leave the top ends off for like 10 months. Does anyone have instructions pertaining to checking/changing the cam chain tensioners too?

 

Check your starter clutch as the case can crack or the bolts can back out and contact the side cover.

 

I second this. For proof, here's what I found a couple days ago when changing my own faulty starter clutch. (also a 1986 vf500f)



Please note that if you look at the bottom of the crank case, you can actually see the missing bolt that has FULLY backed out and fallen into the oil bath below the clutch pack.
It amazes me that honda would allow clearance for a bolt to fully back out of its threads on the crankcase cover, but it's a non-issue now =p

 

Thats Crazy! I Did End Up Checking Mine And If Was Clean As A Whistle. Everything Was Tight And NoMarks On The Inside Case. I Think The Clicking May Be AN Exhaust Leak At ThE Engine. Ive HeardIt Before. If Its Not That Its The Camchain.. Which I Really DonT Wunna Change.