Knocking/clacking sound

[Italianzero]

Hey all, got the bike started again for the first time in a couple years and there is a higher pitched knocking/clacking sound. Is this something to be concerned about? Any suggestions as to the cause? Couldn't attach the video so included a YouTube link: XS400 Start Up

Before it sat, the carb was professionally tuned and synced. I just replaced the petcock with a non-vacuum. New oil and filter. Started up with choke on.

Thank you!

 

[CaptChrome]

That is valve clatter from the rocker arms contacting the tops of the valves when operating them. It is always hard to tell from a video, but even though some clatter is normal, this might be a bit loud. Causes can be excessive valve clearance or lack of top end lubrication.

So, just to rule out any issues, it would be good to check and reset the valve clearances. Also, make sure you have the correct oil level in the sump and that your low oil pressure switch and light work.

 

[Italianzero]

Thanks, Capt! I’ll check all of the above.

 

[tstidham]

Yeah, check the valve lash settings and while looking in the cap holes, make sure you see plenty of oil up in the top end.

 

[vladimirmartin23]

If a clearance doesnt stop it, take off the cover and see if anything is broken or the timing is out. My bike did that right before the sprocket snapped

 

[Durney]

To me, that sound pretty normal. Keep in mind these are noisy motors to start with, Yamaha put rubber insulators between the fins in the head and barrels to make the motor less noisy. Check valves and time it. Mine sounds like that I have almost 70,000 miles on mine and works great.