Topic: Rattle that increases with RPM - Cam Chain?

[ddamron]

Hey guys, I've got a rattle that matches my rpm speed. It drops down to inaudible at speed if I pull the clutch, but sitting still at idle I can still hear it. 1975 CB550

It sounds a lot like a chain (and by this I mean that it sounds a bit like a metallic jingle), certainly not the worst noise I've heard come out of my bike (nothing compared to tappets out of adjustment, etc) but I'm not familiar with what a bad cam chain noise actually sounds like.

BTW I did do the 3000mi tune up, I tried doing my cam chain again last night and the screw did not move. I've seen references on here to people having to try this with the engine running.

Any advice on how to proceed?

[flybox1]

revisit the cam chain adjustment.
when that is complete, and you're sure the rest of the tuneup was done well, finish with a vacuum sync of your carbs.
a proper sync can quiet things down a lot.

[InTheStreet]

My clutch makes noise like that from time to time.  Replacing my worn out clutch helped, so did making sure it was adjusted properly.  It still does it from time to time.  I don't see it as a problem because I replaced every clutch part, the primary chain, cam chain guide and adjuster somewhat recently.