CB350 noisy valves.

m511y

Less is more
I have noticed that the valves on my 73 CB350 are very loud. They have always been loud (and it could be my imagination), but this seems louder than last riding season. I have changed the oil, correctly set the valves, chain tensioner, and timing. Is this normal or could I have a clogged oil passage?
 
A well-tuned CB350 should sound smooth on the top end. No clicking or rattling, just the whirring of the camchain spinning around. You can check if there's good oil circulation on top by removing the tappet covers while running the motor. Put your finger on top of the tappet and it should be covered with oil spitting out of the passages.
 
DrJ said:
A well-tuned CB350 should sound smooth on the top end. No clicking or rattling, just the whirring of the camchain spinning around. You can check if there's good oil circulation on top by removing the tappet covers while running the motor. Put your finger on top of the tappet and it should be covered with oil spitting out of the passages.

If the tappet isn't covered in oil is it time for a rebuild?
 
You don't see any oil squirting onto the tappets? That would be a problem. Yeah, I'd check the cambox cover and make sure all the oil galleys are clear. Also see check the oil pump and screen and clean out the centrifugal filter.
 
DrJ said:
You don't see any oil squirting onto the tappets? That would be a problem. Yeah, I'd check the cambox cover and make sure all the oil galleys are clear. Also see check the oil pump and screen and clean out the centrifugal filter.

I haven't checked yet. Just planning ahead.
 
AlphaDogChoppers said:
Fer shure?
Adjusting valves is a delicate task that not everyone has a knack for.

I sure hope so. I have been adjusting them the same way on both of my CB 350s since I got them. It would suck to find out I have been doing it wrong.

I follow the instructions in my Clymer manual and use feeler gauges.
 
Just checking.
I have seen so-called experienced mechanics screw it up.
No way to know your skill level, and loose tappets would be the first suspect. Certainly, no slight is intended.
 
No slight taken Alpha.

I have read a few other posts about these engins just having noisy top ends. It runs great, I just want to be sure I'm not destroying my tappets, cam, and valve train.
 
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