Top End Rattling Noise

Hey guys, '81 XJ550 Seca, finally have it running; took it out for a longer ride and i noticed that after 10 minutes of the engine running I get a clacking/rattling noise at the top end? What am I looking for? Valve adjustment? Valve stuck? Any help will be much appreciated.
I am looking to have the engine running smoothly without too much noise.
Thx

 

Valve adjustment check first. All have to be in spec. Then check the cam chain tension.

 

Howdy, if you are mechanically inclined, take the cam cover off and check to see if you have too much slack in your cam chain. If you do find too much slack, check your cam chain tensioner, I'm not sure whether you have a manual or automatic, to tell which, a manual has a bolt with a lock nut. If you have checked the tensioner and it's at it's limit, you may have to change the cam chain. How many miles on the bike?

 

Thank you for the reply guys ... finally something for me to other than riding around ...

 

I have 18,700 miles on the bike; it sat in my garage after cleaning it thoroughly for 2 years and before it was stored outside for about 15; had a shop that specializes in old bikes get it running; not sure if they did the, adjust valve first, synch carb second

 

Valve clearance check here: http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=14827.html and part Deux: http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=29209.html

Your cam chain has a manual adjuster; directions as follows:


STEP 1: Remove LH crank-end (ignition) cover. (Use of impact driver shown)









Start there; if the noise doesn't get better let us know.

It could also be a loose exhaust pipe at the head, an exhaust component anywhere rubbing/vibrating against something, a relay broke loose and vibrating against the valve cover, or one of many other possibilities.

 

Thank you. I looked for the cam chain adjuster but I must be totally blind (apparently when you're over 50 it'll happen). I'll look for it again and follow the adjusting procedures.
Thx again

 

You're not the only one here over 50-- look at my first bike (in my sig) and do the math.

It's on the back of the cylinders, in the middle, underneath the rack o'carbs. Look in from the right side.