A good reason why I purchased the extended warranty on my 2011. anything happens HD pays for it. I just ride it and don't worry.

 

Zippers performance sells shims to control the rocker arm movement. I'm sure others do also. SM says end clearance should be .003-.013" with a service limit of .025". With the close proximity of the spring retainers to the rocker box and cover, it is almost a given that there is going to be noise. The cover even acts like an amplifier of the noise. You can remove the cover and check clearance between the spring and rocker box and use modeling clay to check clearance between the retainer and cover. Then grind as necessary to improve clearance. Shim rocker end play and check the lifter/pushrod relationship. If you're not satisfied, aftermarket rocker boxes are still an option, though an expensive one.

 

Rick, thanks! I will have to get the bike for a few days and verify specs...

 

If he wants to hear valve train wracket he should try a metric cruiser holy christ now that's enough to make you switch brands oohh wait I did switch brand. My FLHR is very quiet, considering its a vtwin. I wonder if its the 103 setup, wish he coulda heard my 1100 Vstar!

 

He could always get a VROD, that way he would still have a Harley.....

 

I actually think there is more noise after switching to synthetics at the 1k mile service.

 

My valvetrain is quiet with Amsoil. When I used the SE oil in my 05 RK mine was noisy to.

 

How much do you add to each hole?

To the OP, I just switched to Amsoil, it quieted it down a little. Might be something to try at his next oil change. I came off is a Honda, and the valve noise woried me at first, but I'm kind of used to it now.

I may give Lucas a try once I find out how much to put in.

 

50w Dino oil. Keeps the sewing machine nice and quiet.

 

Lucas recommends 25% in Harley-Davidson motors. Offered in reg and syn, works like STP to quiet valve train. Sold as Lucas Oil Stabilizer. Roller rockers; put them on the Buell, not as quiet as the HD, but nice smooth mechanical sound instead. Can't hear anything but the Vance & Hines exhaust once above an idle anyway.