Noisy tappets gone now with Amsoil?

[51Duck]

My 2003 has had intermittent noisy tappets / lifters since I bought it last year. I have read several threads on this forum with several ideas, all of which are probably great. But I wanted to share this.

Previously, I would get really loud tapping at odd intervals, lasting up to 10 minutes. There was not much correlation to warmup etc. it would just start up then quit later. Recently the bike sat for about 2 months. I changed to Amsoil 10W40 M/C oil and Amsoil filter. On starting, there was a half-loud tapping, not as severe as some times, but steady. It slowly faded for the first 10 miles or so, then disappeared completely and has not returned. I have only run it about 200 miles since, odd short trips and one 60 mile freeway stint. But it has never stayed quiet for more than 20 minutes before and now it seems perfect.

I will provide an update as time goes by. Tomorrow I leave on a road trip without the bike, so I may not see replies for awhile. But I will check back in case anyone wants to discuss.

[cranky]

... love the one you're with!!!! GBG Hope it lasts for MANY miles!!!!

[krasmu]

Always like reading positive things. Hope it continues for you. Stay safe on your next trip.

[Lucasind]

What ever works....works ! ! there is no iron clad law saying that you MUST use any given engine oil ! put some more miles on it and report back please .

[51Duck]

So I have continued moderate use since my first post. Results stay positive. When the bike sits for a few days, there is a very quiet tapping for about 10 minutes that disappears and never returns. If ridden daily, no tappet noise at all. Have now put about 600 miles since changing to Amsoil.

[51Duck]

Happy to report still absolutely no tappet noise since changing to Amsoil in 2016. This is a 2003 that had really had loud tapping, would come and go at no particular time. I believe in this case, Amsoil solved the issue.

[cushman eagle]

I am glad for you to have such a good ,easy fix

[Mr Jensee]

I dont know how long your bike sat before you bought it but if the oil was old the tappets could have gotten sticky. Changing to a good oil and running it more often is probably the cure. Always remember 3 quarts 22 oz. exactly with a new filter is what is required. Any more oil and it could affect the valve tappets.