Sounds too loud when shifting gears

[barkymarky]

I just bought a 95 VF750 in beautiful condition. When shifting gears it sounds loud to me. It is loudest from 1st to 2nd and 2nd to first. I would describe it as a solid, positive "clunk". There is no slipage and no grinding. Seems less noticable at higher speeds. Maybe this is just the way Magnas are. All comments will be appreciated.

By the way, this is a great Forum. I've read 8 or 9 pages of tips and tricks and it's really informative.

[Charles S Otwell]

Welcome barkymarky! I think most 3rd gen Magnas clunk a little, some more than others. I don't think there is any need for alarm. One thing that was suggested to me was to change to a full synthetic oil, it worked for me (took a couple changes). Of course the very mention of the word oil will probably set off a chain reaction of great MAGNAtude . Now just sit back and wait ,you will have your answer, probably several, (ENJOY)

[Sledge Hammer]

Welcome to MOOT, Barkymarky, from MOOT Outpuost Lawrenceville (GA). I also have a '95 and it likewise leaves no doubt that it has changed gears. What you described sounds just like the sounds mine makes. I have put almost 5,000 miles on mine in mostly suburban traffic (lotsa shifting) and nothing seems out of whack, no gears grind or slip, and there is no clutch slippage. I think it the nature of the machine.

And, as Charles said, you can expect lots of opinions. Most of them are better informed that what I can offer.

[lragan]

I too switched to synthetic oil in my '96, and it seems to be not as loud on shifting -- or maybe my hearing is just slipping faster than I care to admit.

[Slydynbye]

I usually don't downshift from 2nd to 1st before I'm almost stopped. If I try it at any speed it gives a good wack. Probably not good for anything in there.
Going from 1st to 2nd you have to do it with some authority and it seems to be a longer throw.

+1 on the Synthetic  I use Amsoil 10-40 MC specific oil.

[lragan]

+1 on the Synthetic  I use Amsoil 10-40 MC specific oil.

My choice, too.

[Magnum Magna]

There is clunk but I get a feeling of solidness more than a feeling of a problem.

Rotella Synthetic "BLUE" 5W-40

[MarylandMagnav45]

regular non-synthetic mc oil 10w40...no gear sound changes...but i have a 1st gen magna

[Jerry G Turner]

I don't think it's anything to worry about most 3rd gens make a loud clunck going from 1st to 2nd, as most have said changing the oil will help, but overall don't worry about it just enjoy the ride, welcome to MOOT.

[hootmon]

I have a '94 (near 70K)- It clunks real good between 1-2 2-1.. It even clunks some now 2-3 if I am over 4K on the tack.
Shifting below 4K reduces the clunk - I run Amsoil 20w50 and it helps when the oil is new...
Nature of the beast.. Someone put in a "Shift Star Kit" http://factorypro.com/ and stated that it improved things significantly ( do a search, you should find the thread). I don't know if the clunk bothers you enough to spend $140 and the time to install it  or not..