Name that noise...and smell?

I have an '82 Maxim 750. It runs well enough, but there is a noise coming from the front of the engine. Its kind of a tick/clack sound. I'm thinkin its an exhaust valve in the fourth cylinder because of compression test results, and also because the spark plug in said cylinder is an almost grayish color, while the others show a bit of carbon build-up(it only wants to run with the choke open). I'm hoping that it's only a shim that I'm going to need, but I can't get the side cover off to move the lobes so I can check valve clearance.


Edit: I checked valve clearances today, and I either have the wrong specs, or they are all very, very off. Also, after only 5 minutes of idleing, the bike gets very hot, so hot that the exhaust seems to be smoking. Choke is barely open. Tick/clack sound is still there.
please help.

 

Re: Name that noise!

If you're having problems getting that side cover off, get a handheld impact wrench with the correct tip... give it a good solid whack and you should be able to loosen those screws.

I honestly can't comment on your cylinder issue (i assume thats what you're talking about), i'm sure someone will be by shortly to help out. welcome aboard, btw

 

Re: Name that noise!

Welcome to the site rhettb3 !!

Before you ride much, check your rear brake shoes (see signature\/)
Cut 3 feet of garden hose to use as a stethescope- - listen for an exhaust leak, and pinpoint your noise.

Roll your engine over without removing the cover by having it on the main stand, put it in 5 th gear, and pull on the tire.

(it only wants to run with the choke open). "quote"
Well, you're deep into carb cleaning on that one !! 8O
You'll get plenty of help here.

 

Re: Name that noise!

^^^ SEE!

 

Re: Name that noise!

Thanks for the tips guys. A fresh tank of gas and some seafoam cleared up the carbs, at least enough to buy me some time in diagnosing my other problems. I'm going to do the fifth gear thing here in a little bit, I'll repost with how it goes.

 

someone tell us Brits about this Seafoam stuff!
What is it and what does it do?

 

http://www.seafoamsales.com/products.html

http://www.seafoamsales.com/tech-info-gas-engines/


Here you go, dude!

 

The working ingredient is Naptha which is a carb parts friendly mild solvent.

If the small passages in your carbs are partially blocked, the Naptha can work to dissolve and clean the build-up. If a passage is 100% blocked, the Naptha will not flow in to work.

It is either similar to, or exactly the same as Coleman Stove fuel, white gas, and the main component of Zippo lighter fluid. However, it works out to $200 / Gallon !! for the active ingredient.

 

Thanks Fellaz!