Hi I have started hearing a tapping sound when first firing up in the mornings.I heard somewhere to use a thinner oil in the colder months so the oil rises quicker in the engine.
I put in some valvoline SAE 15w-40 but can still hear the tapping..the bike is still running well ( can anyone Help )
Thanks Tom
2009 KLX 250's

 

Sounds like valves to me.

 

Sounds like timing chain noise. There are a million posts here on the subject. Just try the search feature and you will find them.

 

What is the basis of your diagnosis? Please give a reason as it gives the OP a better understanding of why/what is occurring & assists with fixing the problem. Share your experience.

 

More than likely timing chain

 

My bike has a very apparent tapping, pretty sure it's the KACR...

I have a Krieger tensioner.

It totally disappears above 1500rpm maybe a bit lower, but when idling, it's apparent.

 

Most likely to be cam chain. I bet the tapping sound comes up between 5k-6k rpm, as well, right?

 

WOW. What oil DID you have in there before you went to the thinner 15-40? The manual calls for 10-40.

 

I thought the Cam Chain made most of its noise after 5000 rpm. Does the valve noise tapping decrease as the bike gets warmed up? Mine did that when I got it out this year. It seemed to lessen the more I rode it. I had the valves checked less than 500 miles ago. I am using the proper oil though.

 

my 2009 klx250s/sf manual recommends:

sae 20w-50 for 0 to 40+ degrees celsius
sae 20w-40 for 0 to 40 degrees celsius
sae 10w-50 for -10 to 40+ degrees celsius
sae 10w-40 for -10 to 40 degrees celsius
sae 10w-30 for -10 to 30 degrees celsius