XJ 550 engine noise please help!!!!

hey guy just got my first bike and I like it but I can't figure out the noise I got I know the 550 engine is a little noisy from the get go but I don't think this is normal when you rev it up and let off it's got like a grinding /knock to it arond the base of the engine ...any help would be great I got a vid of it so you can hear it so you know what I'm talking about thanks here's the link...>

http://youtu.be/Y-nv4SRhi7Q

 

Youtube says the video is private so no one can't see it unless you make it unlisted so only people you give the link to can watch it.

 

First off, this post is in the "Online, Retail, Shop Review" forum; it belongs in "XJ Chat." See if you can get RickCoMatic to move it for you.

Now, about your issue:

Does this noise sound like it's coming from the big round cover on the right (the clutch cover) more than from the motor itself?

Here's the thing about the 550s: The primary chain in the 550 is a "true" primary drive, it drives the transmission via the clutch, unlike the shaft-driven XJs whose primary drive is via gear.

This primary chain has an hydraulic chain tensioner, actuated by engine oil pressure. When the engine is running at idle, the lower oil pressure will allow the primary chain to relax a bit and it tends to cause a transmission/clutch "rattle" which will go away as soon as you rev the bike.

This condition is normal to a certain extent; however if the bike is out of tune and has a "loping" or lumpy idle, it will make it a lot worse. As will running the wrong oil.

Do you have an owners or shop manual? Do you know how to properly check the oil level, and how to change the oil?

If you want to quiet down a "rattly" 550, you need to be sure you're running 20W40 (recommended but hard to find) or 20W50 motorcycle oil; check and adjust the cam chain; check and adjust the valve clearances, and properly service and tune the carbs. Smooth out the idle and you'll minimize the sound.

Now, about those brakes. Did you see this? http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=15874.html

 

ok video link is fixxed now

 

OK, I listened. And my previous answer applies.

Sounds like a "normal" but a bit excessively rattly 550 to me. It also sounds like it needs a CAM CHAIN adjustment, big time.

When you have the valve cover off to check the clearances, use a flashlight and a mirror and inspect the cam chain guides, front and rear, just to be sure they're in place correctly and not damaged..

 

I would add that when I got my 550 it sounded very similar. I followed the above advice and did all the maintenance. After that the sound greatly diminished, now after putting several thousand miles and I did a few extra oil changes as well, it is basically gone. If I pull in the clutch, even with it warmed up you only hear the sweet rhythmic rumble of the motor.

Also when the valves are adjusted correctly they won't be quiet, that only happens if they are way too tight. When the cam lobe contacts the shim it will make a light tapping noise and is normal.