Keep riding until the day it rattles even after it's warmed up - then mod it or change it.

Or if you are totally fed up listening to it and are a perfectionista - do it sooner

Heavier weight 20/50 bike oil will help a bit for a bit, just none of the energy conserving
stamped stuff

 

GPZ, I agree with Sprock. As far as damage or performance issues, I do not think it's a problem. Although it is anoying as HELL. As far as doing the mod yourself, only you can answer that. Or possibly check with a local machine shop. Good luck and enjoy. FYI, the mod is still doing OK , except I think a wrist pin or the con rod is failing. Anyone with 160K plus on the bottom end out there, let's talk.

 

Thanks.