Possible unusual engine noise, help please?

[Ricco1]

I'm living and working in Indonesia at the moment. I've bought a Honda Mega Pro 160cc single cylinder 4 stroke engine.

There is an unusual noise at certain times. I only hear the sound between 3000 and 4000 rpm. I only notice it when cruising at these revs, not under hard acceleration. It's a rattling sound, not a knocking sound. I'm wondering whether it's an engine problem or something else, mountings maybe.

I'm sure I can get it sorted out here where work is ridiculousy cheap e.g. 2 new mirrors, brake pads, speedo cable and 3 new bulbs for 6 quid- fitted. But, I don't speak the language. Also, people with white skin are almost always considered rich, a prime target to be ripped off. So it would be good to have some opinions as to what this problem might be, before I take the bike in.

Any thoughts or ideas regarding this?

Thanks

[Pete]

Could be one of many things! Try:

- checking all fairing screws are tightened (you'd be surprised!), if applicable

- cam chain tensioner

- clutch

- exhaust for any holes (will sound like a rattle rather than a blow if it's a small hole)

Can't think of any more right now but will have a think. Welcome along by the way!

[Ricco1]

Thanks for that Pete!

Well the bike doesn't have a fairing, so that's ruled out.

The sound remains regardless of whether the clutch is engaged or not. Does that rule the clutch out?

I've checked the exhaust thoroughly, it seems perfectly sound.

So I guess the cam chain tensioner is the most likely? I don't know where this is located on my bike. Is it somthing I can check without tools?

Thanks again.

[Guest]

check brackets etc, especially exhaust mountings, Pete had this with his GSXF the middle bracket was rattling..

[Ricco1]

I traced the sound to a loose housing for the horn. Dab of supergule, sorted! Thanks guys.