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Potential Buyer - 82 XJ750 Timing Chain Noise ?

Discussion in 'XJ Technical Chat' started by Mark John Smith, Nov 10, 2018.

  1. Mark John Smith

    Mark John Smith New Member

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    Hello folks -
    My 1st post :)

    I rode an 82 (81 and 82 I have read are the same ?) 750 today, as a test ride. I found that it runs ok (36k) but at low throttle positions, it has timing chain noise. A little throttle will make it go away, but I'm wondering if -
    - is this normal even when new, or
    - will it get worse as time/miles go on, and
    - how many more miles does it have left before it stops running altogether?

    These have automagically adjusted chains right ?

    Can new chain be had for these ?
    About how much $ would it take to replace one ?

    2 -
    It also has a starter solenoid issue in that sometimes it doesn't start/engage the starter.

    3 -
    I have read a few things re the instruments and warning lights...can these go 'so bad' that the bike won't run ? I dont' care too much if lights blink. Currently all is fine with the warning lights AFAIK.

    FYI - I don't HAVE to buy this bike, as I have others, and can wait for another to come along w/o a problem, or inherent design.model issues. My fav bike is actually a 72 XS650.

    Thx
     
    Last edited: Nov 10, 2018
  2. XJ550H

    XJ550H Well-Known Member Premium Member

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    you could remove and clean or replace automatic tensioner first to see if the sound goes away
    an new chain is also available.
    www.xj4ever.com sells them he is our supporting vendor click his logo in upper right corner or just start a conversation with him.

    do you mean when you press starter button nothing happens ? if so take controler apart spray with electronic spray cleaner and lube button with some dielectric grease or silicone spray.
    xj4ever also sells new starter buttons

    the atarti cluster can be removed the work around in on this site if display does not show up it can be fixed with polorized film.

    warning light comes on because the battery monitor has been removed it is available or a bypass unit can be purchased or made.
    also the MC has a fluid level sensor again it can be replaced.

    warning light comes on for bad taillights low fuel ect

    again xj4ever has what you need
     
    raskal likes this.
  3. raskal

    raskal Active Member

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  4. XJ550H

    XJ550H Well-Known Member Premium Member

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    web site
    http://www.xj4ever.com/

    page on this site

    XJ4Ever - Supporting Vendor


    his name is chacal here start a conversation with him or go to his web site and email him.
     
  5. Mark John Smith

    Mark John Smith New Member

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    Thx for the replies...
    Would a Radian model have less inherent issues than A Seca (750) ?
    I don't know all that much about these model bikes besides what I have read so far here.
    I'm not even sure I want a 4-cyl, but an XS650. The 4-cyl's are faster, good for the hwy I suppose.
     
  6. Polock

    Polock Well-Known Member

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    https://www.xjbikes.com/forums/threads/does-this-sound-okay.121932/
    classic timing chain noise from too low idle/ cylinder missing
    it's old and cheap, get a new one
    i don't think they would ever stop it from running
    the worst thing that happens to them is the starter clutch and a chain guide that brakes up and can jam the shifter
     
    raskal likes this.
  7. Mark John Smith

    Mark John Smith New Member

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    Thx. I guess all 2-wheeled machinery has it's issues.

    I didn't realize Yamaha made the Maxim at the same time they made the Seca...what r the diffs ?

    Another issue I read about is the starter clutches. Are they fixable ? How much dough ?

    I just want to make sure I'm barking up the right tree !
     
    Last edited: Nov 10, 2018
  8. Jetfixer

    Jetfixer Well-Known Member

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    The 650/750 Maxim/Seca are shaft driven , the 550 seca/maxim are chain driven, some prefer chain and some like shaft drive. The radian is chain driven ,600cc similar to the 550. The starter solenoid are cheap less then 20$ this is a usual cause on non starting when you push button and nothing happens. The starter clutch slipping ( mine does it when hot) can be annoying but unless it won't catch at all just run it till it wont . To replace engine has to be removed and cases split ,eventually I will have to do this.
     
  9. k-moe

    k-moe Pie, Bacon, Bourbon. Moderator Premium Member

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    The Information Overload Hour

    The starter clutch requires that the engine cases be split, but it is serviceable. Cost will depend on if the clutch body is cracked or not.

    The Maxim has a cruiser type frame, and different cams. The seca is a sporty-standard with hotter cams.

    The chain noise may just be from the carburetors needing to be synchronized. Uneven fuel delivery will cause the cylinders to "work against each other" and slap the cam chain around a bit.

    Make sure that you're not confusing the normal valvetrain noise with a cam chain noise.
     
  10. Mark John Smith

    Mark John Smith New Member

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    Yea, I've been listenign to engines for 50+ years, I'm sure it's the chain when I 'artifically' make the chain loose with throttle setting. Still this bike will be mine if he accepts my offer :)
     

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