QuestionHi Mark,
I have a couple of questions about my bike I hope you can clarify.
* I replaced the spark plugs on the bike and instead of getting the standard plugs (DPR8EA-9) the parts guy gave me the plugs for cold weather riding (DPR7EA-9). Will there be a problem if I use the cold weather plugs, it's summertime in New England?
* I just had a mechanic inspect my carburetor, engine idle speed, and adjust the valves and choke, but there is a low ticking noise in the engine. The engine was riding and sounding really rough and gritty before the tune up and now it rides a lot better. I just can't remember if that ticking noise was there before the tune up or if it's just part of a health engine.
* There is also another sound that I hear coming from, I think, the engine. It's almost a buzzing kind of a sound. It's been there for a while and I thought it would have disappeared with the tune up. Any ideas what it could be.
I hope I didn't overwhelm you with a lot of silly questions. I love my bike and I want to keep it running as smooth as possible.
Bel
AnswerHi Bel,
Bel: I replaced the spark plugs on the bike and instead of getting the standard plugs (DPR8EA-9) the parts guy gave me the plugs for cold weather riding (DPR7EA-9). Will there be a problem if I use the cold weather plugs, it's summertime in New England?
Mark: Should be alright, but keep an eye on the plugs. Remove them after about 50 miles and check they're coloration. Want a hint of color in form of light brown shades.
Bel: I just had a mechanic inspect my carburetor, engine idle speed, and adjust the valves and choke, but there is a low ticking noise in the engine. The engine was riding and sounding really rough and gritty before the tune up and now it rides a lot better. I just can't remember if that ticking noise was there before the tune up or if it's just part of a health engine.
Mark: Ticking or tapping is normal if it's from the valves working and the clearances between cams/rocker arms. The noise may be new or existing. It may come and go. The important thing is keeping the valve clearances checked and adjusted.
Bel: There is also another sound that I hear coming from, I think, the engine. It's almost a buzzing kind of a sound. It's been there for a while and I thought it would have disappeared with the tune up. Any ideas what it could be.
Mark: It's difficult to diagnose sounds this way. I'm thinking the buzz sound described is caused by the altenator, transmission, clutch, helical cut gears, or timing chains. It's normal for these kind of components to make a buzz/whirr sound.
Respectfully,
Mark Shively
