Thanks for the reply. The dealer put in a new cam, but did not put in a new timing chain because they thought it was good enough yet.

 

yea mine gradually got worse too. started off light and then turned into a knock.

 

Based on what I know about cars, I'd take a hard look at your oil pump pressure. I don't quite know how the Hondamatic transmission works, Wikipedia wasn't very helpful; but if your oil pressure is high, you may have a partially blocked oil passageway. If it is low, you have a failing oil pump; or a partially blocked return line.

Either way, your failed camshaft and lifters prove that something is wrong, and the fact that the noise is back means it aint fixed.

I would look at an oil pump replacement, and do a complete oil pathway flush to remove any sludge in the lines. Or, just save money for more cams and lifters. You're gonna need it.

 

Hefty,
I agree with you. My dealer checked the oil pressure and said it was fine. The dealer is not sure what to say about the problem, other than to start blaming me for it...ie...didn't change the oil properly...ect...and that's a bunch of crap!

 

I don't know about your Rubi but on the 400ex if you remove the housing on the side with the cam chain you may see obvious wear where the chain has become stretched. I would think that if your cam chain becomes to loose it could remove the tension from the cam and allow it to damage itself as well as the lifters.

 

Koopa,
The dealer did have to replace the chain tensioner, as it was not working properly. I have to admit, with a new cam and gear, and having to put in a new tensioner, that they didn't have to replace the chain still surprises me.

 

If that tensioner was broke I would almost guarantee that it allowed the chain to flop and become stretched. I just went through this process with my bro's 400 last night. His was knocking so when we tore it down the tensioner was broke, when we got the chain off it was about 3/8 inch longer than the replacement. Sounds like we found your prob Rubicon1963! Make them turd heads replace your cam chain!

 

06 Rubicon owner, less than 100 miles. Great rig for this ol fart.

2nd post. I plan to stick around.

thx all for their time/info, seems to be a trend here. waiting to see if the chain solves 1963's problem.



450 TRX
300 TRX
500 Rubicon
600 Grizzly (for sale or trade for sand quad)
5 Boats

mk

 

I'm begining to agree that the timing chain could be the problem, now the real problem is, how do I get them to tear it down again and replace the chain....these guys aren't too friendly......

 

I don't know how you'll manage that. If it's under warranty they seem to do what they want. I'd just complain about it until they stop the noise. If you don't wanna do it yourself and you give up on the dealership. I'd suggest a non-dealer shop that works on small engines. Hmm..I guess you could stay out back of the dealership until the mechanics get off work and offer them a little cash to repair it on the side. : )