16 Valve Engine Noise

[Guest]

I used to have a 1981 GS650GL and am familiar with the ticking or chattering noise from the valves. Today I started my GSX750 Katana for the first time since bringing it home last fall and was surprised at the amount of noise from the valves. I already adjusted the clearances and all are in spec. Is a 16 valve engine that much noisier than the 8 valve? Other than the valve noise the engine revs beautifully and it has an awesome growl to it.

Cheers!

[Steve]

Well, you have to remember that the clearance is just a bit larger and you have twice as many valves making the racket.

Please keep in mind that the valve clearance on the 8-valve engines always got tighter, but the 16-valve engines can go either way.

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[Boriqua]

I went over my valves but the bike is still fairly noisy when it gets really hot. Not unpleasant. Sounds like a sewing machine.

Noisy ... Whew I bought a Triumph Bonneville new in 2003. Carburated model. That sucker was a RACKET!

[Guest]

I went over my valves but the bike is still fairly noisy when it gets really hot. Not unpleasant. Sounds like a sewing machine.

That's a pretty accurate description - like a sewing machine. Mine sounds that way when cold. I just got it started yesterday for the first time since my re-build and was surprised at the sound. Perhaps it will get quieter as it warms up. I only let it run for a minute or so then shut it down - it was too cold in the garage!

Cheers!
K