Ticking??

[Irisheagle]

Not to contradict the others, but I had a similar issue (constant clicking sound like a tiny hammer) which was present at idle and increased proportionally in speed with engine RPM's. The mechanic initially thought it was the valve clearances, but eventually fixed the problem by replacing what he called the "cam holders" (I could never find this part listed on the OEM diagrams).

Now I dont know the first about engines (yet), but I would advise checking for abnormal amounts of metal fragments in your oil just to be sure. If there is metal in your oil, it's coming from somewhere.

[dc112675]

Based on most action movies I have seen, I can diagnose your problem.  Clearly there is a bomb tucked inside your engine.  Fortunately, the bad guy was nice enough to take the time and money to install a large LED readout letting you know how long you have until it detonates.  Also, he read the book "Bombs for dummies" and color coded the wires so you can easily identify them.  Now all you have to do is cut the red wire and the ticking will go away.  Or is it the blue wire . . .

[roboto65]

but eventually fixed the problem by replacing what he called the "cam holders" (I could never find this part listed on the OEM diagrams).

Well the reason you do not see the cam holder is because it is matched to the head IRC and when you buy a new head you will get the cam holders with it there is also no bearing surface perse it is part of the head also..

[MarylandMagnav45]

Well, I checked the valve clearance and they were all in spec, then I had my uncle check it just to make sure and he came to the same conclusion.  So I performed the oiling TSB and closed it back up.  It still makes the ticking, but the idle knock is gone.   Thoughts?

My first gen had a ticking/scraping sound too. 

I did the valves as well, and it cleared up a bit but there was still some presence.  I chalk it up to a 25 y/o bike...

It runs GREAT!

[magnagregcan]

Sometimes, I hear "the noise" also! Sometimes it is at low speed (MPH) and sometimes at low RPM. Then I think "does it still preform" so I crank on the gas. If it goes like stink (?) then I know it's not mechanically deficient. All else is "MOOT"! Please excuse the pun!!
I check my valve clearance every year (I have a 2000 with 60,000 Km) for the past 3 years.
The most they are out from min-max spec is 2 thou, so eventually I'll get "the valves" done. It's a BIG job, not for the faint of heart, but from what I read, am told, and have heard, they only need to be done once (forever).
The 3rd gen Magna is a fantastic bike! I have a 95 also, with only 4511 miles on it (from Maryland 3 years ago). It needs the carbs cleaned, otherwise it looks just like off the show room floor. Since I'm 59, I think the Magna will be my favorite bike until I can no longer ride. I'm presently contestimng a speeding ticket, my 2nd one this year which could lead to suspension of driving privilages.
It's not a privilage but a right I think! Anyway, don't be neurotic about the little noises; go out and DRIVE the bike! If it lets go, then fix it. Until then: DRIVE!
Cheers!
Greg

[mtrosclair]

Thanks, That is what I Needed to hear.   It still runs like a scalded dog and looks great!!