so i have an 06 z400, which i just put hotcams intake and exhaust cams in. when its running, there seems to be a ticking noise in the engine. it seems to be the cam chain, and i am wondering if it is the cam chain tensioner. The adjusting bolt is tight, but i was wondering if it would even make a difference how tight i have the bolt since there is a spring that automatically adjusts the tension when the chain stretches. could there be any other problem that i am unaware about? any help would be appreciated

 

did you install a new cam chain? its a good rule of thumb, no matter how many hours on the bike, when installing cams, install a new chain also. your valves could also be out of adjustment causing the ticking noise.

 

Yeah when you put in the cams, you should always double check your valve clearances. It could be the timing chain, but you have an '06. The timing chains on these machines are notorious for stretching.

 

i checked the valve lash in all valves, and changed the shims so they were in manufactures specs, then did the recommended 30 min break in period. i noticed the ticking noise right off but kept breaking it in. i then tore it back apart, and rechecked valve clearances and all were still good. i put it all back together and there was still a noise, so i starting to think it might be the cam chain.

 

Yup its ther cam chain. I did the same thing. Then put a new DID chain in....no noise anymore.

 

cam chain... my atv repair shop guy use to race a z 440 so he knows his stuff. he took my cam chain tentioner spring and cut about half a inch off(after i put a new cam chain in). sorry but i forgot why he did it.

 

HMMM...thats a good idea...bet it does not stretch the chain as fast......I might try that.....hmmmmm...thats a good one. Less drag too=more power.

 

I hear the ticking noise also it drives me crazy i checked the cams they are perfect replaced the timing chain and am still hearing the noise

 

what kind of chain you use?

 

DID