Went for a ride and my dog got sick

Steve1028

Well-Known Member
Ok, no mechanic here:bang:, this bike will be heading to the shop, but just wondering what I may be looking at as my problem. 05 Bulldog, on my last ride, when I got home, I was hearing what sounded like a lot of valve train noise, but I didn't have time to check it out. Got it out today, bike starts right up, valve train sounds very noisy, roll on the trottle and hardly any horsepower available, air filter was pretty saturated with gas after a 2 mile test ride. Any ideas? Comments greatly appreciated!
 

Raywood

The Pirate
Staff member
Calendar Participant
Troop Supporter
Need more info......

How long since last start/run?

Valve train noise could be attributed to a clogged up tappet screen. Clean it and see if that helps.

Gas in the filter could be a dirty needle valve in the float assembly. Easy fix.

:cheers:
 
You either fouled a plug or you have am issue with your ignition. I fouled a plug once and had the same symptoms. However, the white rear plug is a different issue. Something is way lean there. Change the plugs first and try firing it up again.
 

Steve1028

Well-Known Member
Need more info......

How long since last start/run?

Valve train noise could be attributed to a clogged up tappet screen. Clean it and see if that helps.

Gas in the filter could be a dirty needle valve in the float assembly. Easy fix.

:cheers:
Just rode it Tuesday, 50 miles, everything seemed fine until I got back to my driveway. Started noticing a lot of noise from valve train, sort of sounded like a diesel. Didn't have a chance to check it out until today, fires right up, noisy, no power, front plug is black.
 

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Raywood

The Pirate
Staff member
Calendar Participant
Troop Supporter
Are you using the enrichener to start the motor? That will foul out your plugs real fast.
 
Okay the back plug is a little lean but not bad, that front plug is fouled. Replace them both and fired it up again. What plug brand and number are you running?
 
What type of debris was on the tappit screen? Just oil sludge or were there particles on it?
When was your last oil change?
Let me know how you like those Iridiums. I have been thinking about trying them.
:up:
 
Oh and just for ghits and siggles makes sure your front spark plug wire is pressed securely into the ignition coil. Sounds stupid but I had one work loose once.
 

Steve1028

Well-Known Member
TP's. Oil supposedly changed by dealer less than 500 miles ago, but looks like it could use changing to me. Tappet screen had sludge, but also some fine particles on it. Plug wires were securely plugged into the coil. Tappet screen clean, NGK's in, fired it up and it seems to be running fine. Will give it a test ride tomorrow afternoon and see how she does. I think/hope that may have fixed it. Will post back up tomorrow after riding.

Thanks guys, I'm not much of a mechanic, so I really appreciate your help! :2thumbs::cheers:
 

Steve1028

Well-Known Member
Dog still not well

Took her for a 10 minute ride. It sounds better, and no gas smell, but still more than usual valve train noise. And the part that worries me...the power is just not there. Not sure I will have any time to mess with the bike this evening, already had dinner plans, but will be taking a look at it again tomorrow. I wish I were a better mechanic!:bang:.
Still welcoming any ideas.




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