Finding a rattling problem

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Jan 10, 2012 | 05:54 PM

#11

giobott

Intermediate

Joined: Mar 2011

Posts: 37

Likes: 0

From: Badlands - Alberta, Canada

finding a rattling

check the allen head bolts holding the ehaust crossover mount to the engine. If not tight they squeak which sounds like a high pictch rattle

Jan 10, 2012 | 06:44 PM

#12

TWIN CAM 96

Outstanding HDF Member

Joined: Apr 2011

Posts: 2,555

Likes: 6

From: East of the USS Midway

How about the solenoid cover or loose rear brake line/ rear brake lever/ floor board mount or bolts ?

Jan 10, 2012 | 06:47 PM

#13

AlanStansbery

Road Warrior

Joined: Oct 2008

Posts: 1,334

Likes: 17

From: Rosamond, Cali

No specific advice, just a general observation. Sounds heard through a helmet are much different when heard with the helmet off. I had an issue in which the starter was kicking in randomly. I could not identify the sound with my helmet on (I wear a full-face). The first time it happened without the helmet on my head, I knew immediately what it was... With the helmet on, it sounded like I was dragging a stick along the ground, or like it was a weird rattle...

Alan

Jan 11, 2012 | 09:18 AM

#14

carlero

Stage I

Joined: Mar 2008

Posts: 1

Likes: 0

Road King Rattle

I've noticed on my 05 RK that the front fender running light lens cover rattles along with the head light nache top center strip trim piece. Tape them down and take a ride.

Jan 11, 2012 | 11:14 AM

#15

sgdiesel

Road Warrior

Joined: Nov 2008

Posts: 1,296

Likes: 3

From: Cheltenham, UK

I normally work through a structured process of elimination, for example

Is the rattle related to road speed or engine rpm? If you get to a speed where it is rattling pull the clutch in and listen.

If engine related, is it at same rpm in all gears or across all revs in a certain gear etc? This can tell you whether it is engine or transmission

Is it a resonance sound? Loose bolts and fixtures tend to vibrate in quite a specific range, not higher or lower rpm

Is it metal on metal or rubber?

Jan 11, 2012 | 11:17 AM

#16

sgdiesel

Road Warrior

Joined: Nov 2008

Posts: 1,296

Likes: 3

From: Cheltenham, UK

Another tip for finding rattles, although not applicable in this case as you cannot get it while stationary, but using a long screwdriver, place the tip on the area you suspect and push your ear against the handle, you will be amazed how accurately you can pinpoint noise this way

Jan 11, 2012 | 11:25 AM

#17

Pumba11

Elite HDF Member

Joined: Jan 2007

Posts: 4,020

Likes: 69

From: Twin Cities, MN

Another similar tip that I use is, if you can get it rattling on the stand or whatever, I use a paper towel cardboard tube to listen through. Move it around and you will easily pick up where the rattle is coming from.

Jan 11, 2012 | 11:46 AM

#18

clap

Road Master

Joined: Aug 2005

Posts: 1,203

Likes: 7

From: Bedford , Pa

Did you check the rubber blocks that hold your mufflers up at the top rear of the mufflers. They have been the rattle of many a bikes. I have replaced mine a couple times. Only a couple bucks each.