I recently noticed my 02 Scrammy knock/ticking at idle. It matches the rpms when rev'd, so I'm thinking it may be a rod knock. I am going to do an oil change soon, so I will looks for sparkles or grayish material. Any help is appreciated. Also any idea as to why it is hard to put in gear, my Dad's 99 Scrammy 500 shifts into gear flawlessly.

 

If it shifts easier in to gear with engine off then could be a belt or clutch problem.Plus if you get into the clutch area remove the drive clutch crank it up and see if noise is less.Could just need clutch buttons and bushings replaced as far as the noise goes.

 

It's coming from the right side, almost sounds like it could be the magneto or recoil starter. I was waiting for you to chime in, lol. You know your stuff. Btw, it is hard to shift at all times.

 

Might be worth it to take the flywheel,stator off and see if the slotted nut has backed off the cam chain lower sprocket. Can make noise like you're describing. Some 325/330s had this happen too.Item#17.Dirt Cheap Yamaha, Polaris, Suzuki & Kawasaki OEM Parts & Accessories – Cycle Parts Warehouse

 

I think I've narrowed it down to the starter. It doesn't knock/tick consistently like a rod knock. Once I finish replacin the rear axle bearings, I will remove the pull start and look at what's behind it. Thanks for the help, I will post my progress on here.

 

If it's just a rattling noise then could be the starter bendix that's making the noise by itself or could be caused by worn steel bushings that it rides in. One is in the recoil cover the other in the engine case.

 

It is more or less a rattle. How critical is it if it's the starter bendix?

 

They wear out from age. You can get these from 17 bucks up on ebay if needed. When removed it should be able to twist out and recoil back in pretty quick. You may be able to clean it up,but again as cheap as they are I'd replace it. Here's a good video on this also. Plus check over the recoil as the ratchet spring can jump out along with the ratchet. When the recoil is pulled the ratchet lever(that grabs the flywheel cup) should kick out and and retract back easily. If it doesn't, then recoil bolt and cover plate may need to be removed and clean and grease the parts up.

 

I will give that a shot. Thank you for the information. I knew I could count on you. Again I will keep you posted on my progress and what the outcome is.

 

just got my parts for the rear end today. I will probably get working on the rear end and the noise on monday. i will post my results.