Bandit Alley

GENERAL MOTORCYCLE FORUMS => GENERAL MECHANICAL & TECHNICAL => Topic started by: puttin along on April 19, 2007, 11:28:43 PM

Title: New Day, New Problem
Post by: puttin along on April 19, 2007, 11:28:43 PM
Bike sat for over a week and when I went to start it it was popping and sounded like it had a miss but wasnt sure.  So I pulled plugs and they had carbon build up but that shouldnt be right because im running a Jardine slip on w/race core and no jets.  It should be running lean. By the way I ride a 02 bandit 1200.  Anyway It helped the problem some but I was wondering if any one thought it could be a burnt valve or a sticking valve.  I have alot of valve noise but not due for adjustment for 2000 more miles  Is this valve noise normal havent ever owned a Bandit till now. Please help!
Title: New Day, New Problem
Post by: Red01 on April 20, 2007, 10:57:19 AM
Valve noise is normal, more so when cold, but you should still have some when warm.

If all four plugs are carboned up, you'd have to have a problem in each cylinder. Since this is an '02 model, my first question would be is, does the VIN number end in 22102178 or lower? If it is, you may be a victim of the defective piston issue.

Here's the FAQ on that. (http://forums.banditalley.net/viewtopic.php?p=1166#1166)
Title: New Day, New Problem
Post by: puttin along on April 20, 2007, 11:43:14 AM
Im safe there, its above the vin.  The previous owner said it was hard on plugs.  I also found one of the plugs not very tight and one out of gap but it still seems kinda rough in running.  Im going to install a jet kit (Dale Walkers Hole Shot) and hopefully this will help. And also adjust the TPS as described in forum.  But still puzzled about carbon.  It should be a lean machine and im afraid a jet would worsen the problem.  I heard operating choke improperly can do this but ive been riding 14 years and I believe I can operate the choke if nothing else.
Title: New Day, New Problem
Post by: Red01 on April 20, 2007, 11:50:53 AM
I trust you can operate the choke!  :bandit:
Are you sure it's not sticking on though?
Title: New Day, New Problem
Post by: puttin along on April 20, 2007, 12:58:15 PM
Yeah just checked it.  Still puzzled.  Just found out my tps is bad.
Title: New Day, New Problem
Post by: Rocketjock on April 23, 2007, 10:43:28 AM
If you have a lot of valve noise, it might mean that they are not opening very much. The more noise, the less opening. Best check em.
Title: New Day, New Problem
Post by: puttin along on April 23, 2007, 03:33:41 PM
Adjusted my valves,  all were to loose.  Also checked cam chain tensioner while the valve cover was off and reset it.  Now its running great.  It was either one or the other.  But I recommend checking the tensioner when you do the valves.  All together took me 6 hours but Im very picky and took my time.  Also go ahead and buy the cam chain tensioner gasket because I was gentle and mine tore anyway but made one with gasket material.  You do this by covering opening with oil then pressing gasket maker sheet against it then just cut along the outline.  Also can use business card if in a jam.