I have a question about my engine chattering. It's not on initial accelleration, but at about 6000rpm, there is a very distinct chattering sound. It sounds like it's coming from the front of the motor. Any insight as to what this is, would be greatly appreciated.

 

It's not your keys rattling around is it? Just something to check before you get to invloved in massive engine overhaul.

 

No, but good thinking. I put my head down by the key while riding to check that, but that's not it. I'm wondering if maybe it's got something to do with the fact that I've been using cheap 87 octane gas in it. It's got almost 40,000 on it. This is just a possibility. Going to try running some BP or Shell 92 this weekend.

 

Just figured I'd ask. I was quite concerned about my bike when I first got it because it sounded like it was about to shake itself to death....ends up my keys were just shaking around a lot. Felt like a bit of an idiot when I figured that one out.

Does it sound like a knock, a ping, a snap?

 

your bike is supposed to run on 87, putting 92 in there is not going to help the root issue! if it is getting detonation, your piston tops are carbon covered, leading to hot spots, which cause detonation and if it goes away with 92 then you found your problem.

you will need to pour/spray a cleaner in there like Sea Foam or Sea Foam Deep Creep (spray), Mopar Combustion Chamber Cleaner, and i'm sure there are others.

 

I'm going to try higher octane today. It's got almost 40000 on it and I know with older cars this helps. The knocking goes away at higher rpm's and is noticeable again when slowing down toa stop. I'm starting to wonder if maybe a clutch bearing is causing the noise.

 

I had a major vinration issue right around 5k rpms on my F3...tried the keys...listened like crazy trying to figure out where it was coming from...Put my hand on the windscreen and it went away. Turns out my mirror mounting bolts had vibrated somewhat loose...tightened them up and the noise was gone!