Cam chain tensioner 1986 VFR700F

Sounds like valve noise to me. Use a long screwdriver or rod of metal to hold against your ear and use it to probe around to find where the noise is the loudest--a redneck squidbillie stethoscope.

 

Thanks kennybobby! I love this redneck squidbillie stethoscope!

With it, it would seem like the noise is actually coming from #1 intake - which perhaps somehow rattles the chamber loud enough to pass onto the exhaust, and hence it seems loud from the front?

Anyway, time to inspect #1 and #3 valves. Now that I've turned it on though, I'll wait about 2-4 hours before doing the work... (turned it on for about 2 minutes?) Will try to update later!

 

I did all the valve clearances that day without problems, put it all back together, and I still had noise coming out (and a bit of smoke). I decided it was time to bring it in.

The mechanic says he needs to do an inspection (for $$) since the sound is coming from the lower chamber of the engine - he suspects two things: 1. the clutch bearing broke, or 2. an engine rebuild. Based on my description of how the sound started to happen (all of a sudden, as opposed to growing increasingly loud), that it is not the valves.

I really hope it isn't an engine rebuild (only $15k miles...).

If it is, however, I do wonder if anyone experienced out there is willing to do-it-for-beer/cheap/do-it-with-me-over-a-weekend type of deal. PM me if you are interested! I'm out on the west side in LA, but I do not have a real workshop/garage, so maybe your place would be better

 

1) Have you noticed if the noise changes when you pull the clutch lever? 2) Have you measured the battery voltage at idle and at 5k rpm, and found that it does not match the manual specs?

If 1) is true then drain the oil and remove the clutch cover and inspect, if 2) then drain the oil and remove the stator cover and inspect for loose stator mount.

 

kennybobby, thanks for the help!

It did end up being the valves. The noise is now fixed!

Unrelated, I also have compression numbers on it.. and looks like I have 1 cylinder not playing nice... ugh... Going to put up a post and see anyone nearby is interested in helping/teaching me do a weekend/couple weekend top side rebuild for beers and a few bucks :\

 

Buddy these rarely have lower end issues. Noise is gone...ride that bitch like you stole it and enjoy. :vtr2:

 

Hey seems I am having a similar problem. How much did it cost you to do the valves with your mechanic. I also live in the west side Los Angeles area. I have 1986 vfr700 as well.