Cam chain noise

[Excavator]

Tried a search on this with no luck.

I am well aware of the rattle on start up...No problem. My 2009 w/7700 miles now has the rattle at all times though it seems to be on and off and at certain rpms. The header bolts are tight so it is the cam chain rattling (ticking). Took the bike to the dealer today and they are telling me that the Kawasaki rep. says that it is at a certain cycle (?) where there is some slack and the noise should subside with mileage. I am using Castrol 10/40 motorcycle oil and there have been no modifications done to this bike. Should I try another oil? Has anyone else had this issue? The bike is operating normally with full power, it just has the slight ticking noise.

[VirginiaJim]

Mine got quieter but it took awhile to 'adjust'.  You can try a different oil if you want.  It may or may not make a difference.  Rattle at all times?

[gPink]

These are ratchet type adjusters aren't they?
Try searching the bike board for 'cct'. Several threads.

[Excavator]

These are ratchet type adjusters aren't they?
Try searching the bike board for 'cct'. Several threads.

OK. Yes he did mention the "ratchet" type adjuster and seems to think it will take care of itself over time. I get to thinking of maybe the oil pump going bad, I just worry about engine noise in anything but I also know we have great engines in these bikes.

[Excavator]

Mine got quieter but it took awhile to 'adjust'.  You can try a different oil if you want.  It may or may not make a difference.  Rattle at all times?

Jim, I wouldn't say all the time but mostly at idle and then about 2000 rpms and again about 3500 rpms or something like that. The dealer is doing a service clinic in a few weeks and offered me a free service so I'm going to let them do that with the Kawasaki oil and see if it makes any difference. Other than that, I guess I'll just ride it until it's cured or...

[gPink]

When in doubt.....

[Excavator]

When in doubt.....

Yeah, I have several of those at my disposal. Thanks guys.

[B.D.F.]

I cannot speak about what you are hearing but the 'start up rattle' absolutely does not last more than a few seconds. Whatever you are hearing, it is not the common situation of the CCT having to fill up with motor oil and be pressurized.

Also the cam chain noise on start up only seems to happen if the bike is on the side stand; does yours make that noise no matter where the bike is (vertically)?

Brian

Tried a search on this with no luck.

I am well aware of the rattle on start up...No problem. My 2009 w/7700 miles now has the rattle at all times though it seems to be on and off and at certain rpms. The header bolts are tight so it is the cam chain rattling (ticking). Took the bike to the dealer today and they are telling me that the Kawasaki rep. says that it is at a certain cycle (?) where there is some slack and the noise should subside with mileage. I am using Castrol 10/40 motorcycle oil and there have been no modifications done to this bike. Should I try another oil? Has anyone else had this issue? The bike is operating normally with full power, it just has the slight ticking noise.

[Pokey]

This big engine seems to like thicker oil IMHO.

[feelergaugephil]

See if the dealer will change the CCT under warranty? sounds likes its faulty and the rachets inside have backed off.
The above member posted the pic of hammer, honestly, when its runing TAP the CCT and see if it helps the noise subside.
My Kawasaki ZRX did the same, a few light taps on the CCT made it function 100% (no more rattle)

[VirginiaJim]

Not a bad idea.  I carry a small ball pein hammer at all times on the off chance my ignition switch doesn't pay attention to me.  Now it has a dual role.  Excellent!