Hi all, I'm new to the VFR world as of this weekend. I just purchased a '94 with 17k mi and there is a repetitive clunking noise when driving anything over about 5mph. Its not the tranny shifting into first or any other gear for that matter. If you can imagine the playing cards in a bicycle wheel but more of a clunking sound thats more of the type of noise. I've tried searching the forums, but I'm not even real sure what I'm looking for. I'm pretty sure the chain is due for replacement and I found the coolant tank with the cap off and sitting on low after the approx. 100 mi ride home (although I dont know why the cooling system would make a clunking noise). Any help at all would be appreciated. Thanks.
Hi Paul and welcome to the group. I would check the chain to see if any of the links are binding or stiff. If necessary lube/soak the chain in oil at least over night (will require removal of the chain) and recheck it. However, if you think the chain needs to be replaced, I would suggest a 520 conversion from sumofallparts.net. I picked up a Vortex 16T front and 45T rear with an RK "Gold" O-ring chain for about $150 shipped. I do not believe the cooling system would make a clunking sound either. But other than a stiff or too tight chain I am not sure what else it might be.
Thanks vman. I've got 2 quick questions about working with the chain. I'm relatively new to the world of working on motorcycles. First, is replacing the chain a relatively straight forward process? I have the service manual, but it looks like there are a lot of little pieces directly behind the gearshift linkage cover that I dont want to fall apart if I take it off. Is this something that I need to worry about? Second, why do you suggest the 520 conversion? Thanks again.
chain service If you dont plan on replacing the front sprocket, you don't take any covers off. Just attach one end of new chain to one end of the old chain using a masterlink (temporary). Then just pull the new chain in by pulling the old chain out. At 17K, you would be best to replace the chain and the rear sprocket at least. If you don't do it at 17K, you will have to replace it soon, so why waste your time soaking an old chain? My 2 cents...
On mine, the only things behind the cover are the speedo drive andthe clutch pushrod (which is really behind the slave cylinder). I had no problems with these items at all and they go back on pretty easily (just be sure to not pull on the clutch lever while the slave cylinder is off). I had to use a grinder and a chain breaker to get my chain off since the factory chain has a riveted master link. I just ground down two pins on one link then broke the chain with the breaker. A punch works well too. As for why the 520 conversion? The whole setup is lighter compared to the 530 and IMO, easier to work with. While the difference in weight is small in the big picture, I noticed the bike accereates smoother and rolls a little better than before. I also used the clip-type master link that came with the RK chain and so far I have had no problems with it.
