Engine ticking sound, ‘91 RC36

Hi guys, I have googled this to death.

I recently purchased a mint 1991 VFR750, it’s white and all original.. mileage is only 14k.
The bike has spent large periods of time not being used, but has had about 800 miles added to it in the last 5 years.

The issue is a ticking sound when cold. It seems to be coming from the front left cylinder. If the bike is left to properly warm up, the ticking sound slowly goes away, and it sounds perfect.

It doesn’t smoke or show any other issues?

I have replaced both front exhaust manifold gaskets, but no change. I was hoping it was an exhaust leak.

I also had the valve clearances checked upon purchase.

Anyway, I have managed to buy an oem Honda cylinder head gasket, and an oem head gasket. I have also bought 2 2nd hand cylinder heads..for parts (if actually needed)

So, any ideas what could be the cause of this cold engine ticking??

I took it to my local bike service garage, and he thought it was piston slap….‍♂️

As I say, the bike is mint, all original and only 14k miles…so I’m struggling what the cause could be??

Thanks

 

Who checked the valve clearances upon purchase?

 

Supposedly the dealer I purchased the bike from. They sent a picture showing the front head off and holding some feeler gauges… but I don’t know how much of that was for show, and if they did it correctly?

I’m thinking I should get them checked to my satisfaction…

 

The fact that you are suspicious, says yes you should.

Let me guess, the picture was the front head. (Edit: Just re-read your post. Yep, front head.)

The only time to take a pic proving you were in there, is when you don't wanna go all the way (and potentially pull cams) and you don't think you need to be doing it in the first place

 

I think you're right.. They were reluctant to do anything tbh. It's all additional cost they don't want.

This is one of the pictures. But even my local bike garage doubted valve clearances as he said they would get tighter & quieter..not noisier. I'm not sure I completely agree. I felt quite strongly that he just didn't want the job

 

Shim / bucket arrangements do typically tighten as the valve seats into the head, but it's not guaranteed. Plus this is about eliminating the possibility AND having a known starting point on a new-to-you bike to track maintenance, since you were not provided with any kind of definitive service history.

 

Agree... I will be getting the valves checked properly & anything else that could be suspect to causing this cold start ticking. It's clearly an expansion of metal/gaps as it warms up & the ticking stops...

I'll update this thread once I have solved this ticking issue. My ocd won't allow me to ignore it lol

Thanks Captain for your replies.. much better

 

I would not rule out a leaking exhaust gasket as the source of a tick.

 

so get a socket on to snug up the nuts and check for tightness, ez enough if any leak is from the front cylinders, rear could be a problem.

 

I have replaced both front crush gaskets, there’s definitely not a leak there.. but I haven’t replaced the rears as they’re trickier.

The sound is coming from the front, left side valve cover.. but as it warms up, slowly gets quieter..to the point where it’s properly hot and the sound goes completely.

With only 14k miles I struggle to think it could be piston slap as one mechanic has suggested?

 

Don't think I've ever heard of confirmed piston slap on a RC36, reasonably maintained or not.

Maybe a stethoscope coule help narrow it down, but as a new-to-me bike that is making some start up / cold noise, I know what my next step would be.

Even if you are wary of pulling cams if something needs attention, checking / confirming gaps is easy while visually inspecting split gear drives.

 

I am going to have the valves/cams & gear drives checked. I have tracked down oem Honda cylinder head gasket and even an oem head gasket..just in case!

Thanks Cap’n.. really appreciate your responses.

I have a collection of 1990s sport bikes, so the VFR will wait until this issue is rectified before being used again.
Its a little frustrating as this is my first VFR and I was keen to add a nice one to my garage of bikes

Here she is again, looking fine

 

Looking fine indeed. Damn.

What are some of your other bikes?

 

Thank you sir.. I’ve always wanted a white VFR, just something about them..

A few of them a ‘99 TLR, ‘90 ZXR750 H2, ZX12R A2…

I’m a big ‘90s sport bike fan.. I’d have more, if I had more space!

 

Hell YES. Thanks for posting.

 

Pleasure.. Thanks for helping with the VFR