Motorcycle Repair: Engine noise at idle., gpz 750, cam chain

Question
I recently bought a 83 Kawasaki zx750. I am in the process of getting it road worthy. I know the carbs need to be cleaned as it will not idle unless the choke is half on. The thing that does concern me, is a noise I am hearing in the engine only below 2000 rpm. The moment I rev above 2000, it just purrs. I am new to motorcycles, but I was suspecting maybe a cam chain. It is a knocking sound, and even using the screwdriver method, I really cant pinpoint the location. Although it does sound louder on the left side of the motor. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Travis, your cam chain is probably the culprit. You will need a service manual for your bike, I recommend that to every one. The manual will detail how to make adjustments to the tensioner if it is in fact adjustable. Also if your bike is a GPZ 750 then there is a ton of articles available online about this motorcycle...google search engine turns up a bunch.

randy