Valve Train Noise during Break-In

[deejay-2k]

I have ridden about 750 miles since the Dyno Tune/Break In was completed at your shop.
I immediately noticed more valve train noise with this Woods W6H cam over the Andrews EV13 cam but was aware that this could be normal due to the aggressive ramp of the Woods cam. Maybe I'm crazy (My OL thinks so :) but it seems to be getting louder. I am a little concerned about whether the pushrods need to be readjusted or whether there is a cam gear lash issue. Is it possible a lifter could be bleeding off in the warmer weather we've been having? (reaching...)

Are there more break-in adjustments that need to be made after a certain number of miles?




1993 EGlide Sport FLHS
Baisley modified SE heads
SE 10.5:1 forged pistons
Baisley CG roller rockers

[Mike]

We will be getting more valve train noise with the warmer climes. EV's, with more angularity in the pusrods can have a little more noise. The higher valve spring pressures, hi-velocity cam ramps, new valve train harmonics and heavier adjustable pushrods all aggrevate this problem. Having said all that, it is still possible you have a pushrod backing off. It would be wise to have this checked and at the same time maybe have them adjusted .030 longer to put the hydraulic unit deeper in the lifter. This often helps reduce noise. If you have pushrods that recommend 2 1/2 turns to adjust, then adjust to 3 turns (making sure they will turn freely once bled off). This all assumes new tappets were installed with the new cam. If not, this needs to be done. Gear lash may be contributing and can be corrected (if needed) with a pinion gear change. But, if the pinion shaft runout is more than .004 (.004-.006 is common), this also becomes difficult. It may also be a good idea to check oil pressure when warm just to make sure. Unfortunately, more mechanical noise is sometimes the price we pay for the performance.
Thanks, Mike