Sounds like...

[hikermikem]

After starting my '82 GS1100G, and when it's not quite warmed up, I can hear what sounds like a rhythmic "click" that seems to be coming from the left side (when sitting on bike) of the engine. At idle (approx 1100 rpm), it goes click..., click..., click..., about every 3 secs or so. If I bring the RPM's up to around 2500, it goes away. Any idea what this may be, and if it's fatal?

Another issue (maybe related?) is when the bike is still relatively cool (choke is off), I can hear the engine rev (slip) at WOT in gear (usually high gear). If I back off the throttle, it will grab OK. Once warm, the WOT / slippage issue goes away. Is this a clutch on borrowed time?

Maybe these are stupid questions, but there you have it.

TIA, mike

[the_journeyman]

If it's slipping ANY and your cable is properly, it's probably time to order replacement parts. Even at WOT my GS1150 doesn't slip, so it shouldn't be normal. No idea about the clicking noise.

JM

[bwringer]

The clutch fibers in G models last nearly forever.

However, the springs sag over the years. This is a very common and well-known problem.

Simply replace the clutch springs with new OEM and ride happy. 15 minutes and $20 worth of parts (six clutch springs and a clutch cover gasket) and you're done. You don't even need to drain the oil -- simply put the bike on the kickstand so the oil is on the other side when you pull the clutch cover.

[hikermikem]

Yeah, that's kinda what I'm thinking - I've never opened up that side of the engine before, is re-buildng the clutch a difficult task? What are the "wear" parts to order?

As I stated, I've not had that pleasure before!

Thanks,

[hikermikem]

The clutch fibers in G models last nearly forever.

However, the springs sag over the years. This is a very common and well-known problem.

Simply replace the clutch springs with new OEM and ride happy. 15 minutes and $20 worth of parts (six clutch springs and a clutch cover gasket) and you're done. You don't even need to drain the oil -- simply put the bike on the kickstand so the oil is on the other side when you pull the clutch cover.

Thanks Mr.bwringer, I like the sound of that! Any idea about the clicking noise?

BTW - I've recently used a colortune plug (I saw on your site) and was quite happy with it, after I played with it for a bit.

Thanks,

[Nessism]

Thanks Mr.bwringer, I like the sound of that! Any idea about the clicking noise?

When is the last time you checked the valve clearances?

Another possible reason is a stuck cam chain tensioner.

Keep in mind that the GS engines are not the quietest around - lots of mechanical clatter. My guess is that if the noise goes away when warm you don't have anything to worry about (which is no reason to neglect the valves if you haven't done a recent adjustment).

[Dave8338]

Could also be end play in the cams starting to make itself known...

[hikermikem]

When is the last time you checked the valve clearances?

I bought the bike from a dis-gruntled owner earlier this summer (he was not the mechanically inclined type). He had spent A LOT of money at the local-yokel bike shop getting this bike to run. The receipts I have show a recent valve adjustment, but no data regarding the shim sizes added or replaced. I think they are also now out-of-business.

Incidently, all I did was adjust the carb mix screws & idle adjust screw & this bike starts & runs like a bear!

Yes, I agree, all my GS bikes are fairly noisey - still learning what's a "good" noise from from a "bad" noise.

Thanks for the input - I am planning on taking the cam chain idler apart to clean it, but I'm not wanting to remove the carbs just yet to get at it!.

Thanks,

[feelergaugephil]

Shims under the cam need to be checked, they tighten up as the engine wears, and sometimes slack off

[Mysuzyq]

Since you mentioned the Colortune, it might be worth checking if the #1 and #2 sparkplugs are properly tightened....if they were left semi-tight, they will start to back out and cause the clicking sound as they leak ....easier to hear at idle.

Tony.

[hikermikem]

Since you mentioned the Colortune, it might be worth checking if the #1 and #2 sparkplugs are properly tightened....if they were left semi-tight, they will start to back out and cause the clicking sound as they leak ....easier to hear at idle.

Tony.

Haven't heard that one before, I'll check them this weekend (when it stops rainning!)

Thanks,