I have a 1986 honda 350 fourtrax the engine makes a slapping or clicking noise when it warms up. Could it be (does it have) the timming chain and if so can it be adjusted and how

 

The cam chain tensioner on the engine is automatic .. It is below the carb on the right hand side (clutch cover side) .. If sometimes it is quiet them you may have caught it before the cam chain has stretched beyond just needing a new tensioner ..

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Thanks for the info I'll keep my fingers crossed

 

I would pull the tensioner off and inspect it prior to purchasing a new one - the only defective tensioners we've ever seen have been physically broken - usually caused by a worn timing chain.

Prior to removing the tensioner, loosen the cap bolt on the end - when you go to put it back on there is a slot inside that a very small flat head screwdriver fits to release the spring tension during installation (otherwise you will force the timing chain too tight and over stretch it).

With the age of your quad, I would suspect the timing chain has stretched to the limits of the tensioner, and the noise after it warms up is the loose chain actually "kinking" or binding up with the expansion of the metal parts, causing a slapping noise.

 

Once you remove the tentioner, build up a braze on the tip of the tentioner. It will add some adjustability/tention to the tentioner when reinstalled.
This is a cheap fix for worn cam chain tentioner guides and stretched chains.
Probably save you a few hundered bucks in parts anyway
When the baze build up gets to around 3/8", the chain will only then begin to wear on the cylinder where the chain passes. So one little braze will not hurt. The extra tention will also straighten out kinked chains to quiet them down. If you prefer, a manual chain adjuster can be installed instead of brazing a tip onto the stock tentioner.

----- Gimpster -----

 

Thanks for all the ideas. Could anyone tell me where I could get a repair manual for my 1986 350 fourtrax