Ariel Owners Motorcycle Club

Hi,
My VH is running one of the club Omega pistons and burns practically no oil at all. Neither are there any nasty metallic streaks in the oil or debris in the sump filter/plate (club magnetic). BUT, it makes a nasty clattering noise when running that disappears when either accelerating or on the overrun and this can be 'cured' by retarding the ignition, (I don't think this is pinking) when running along.

I don't think it is harmful, but, it annoys me because it is 'not right'.

Any suggestions, please?

Maybe the Piston is coming a small way above the top of the cylinder or the Gudgeon pin a little loose. Nev

\Another Possibility is the 1/2 time gear is not a good enough interference fit where it presses on the timing side mainshaft and the Key will eventually Let go and you will Lose the Timing. That could result with the valve(s ) hitting the Piston top. Nev

Thanks for the thoughts.
Nothing for it but to take a look!

If you can reproduce the noises when the bikes on the stand maybe you can work out the general area they're coming from with the 'screwdriver stethoscope'?

SG

Wooden Hammer handle works OK too. Re the Loose fit of the gear I have a Mainshaft with the Key sheared off, somewhere.. Others where the fit is just too Loose to use.. Nev