GStwin.com GS500 Message Forum

Main Area => General GS500 Discussion => Topic started by: redhenracing2 on August 03, 2009, 02:39:40 PM

Title: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: redhenracing2 on August 03, 2009, 02:39:40 PM
Alright, so yesterday I took off from a red light rather quickly because I was in a hurry to get over several lanes. I brought the front wheel up just a tad, and as soon as I did so I heard a distinctive *clunk sound*. Now every time I take off 'spiritedly', it jerks. Its kinda like a tooth may have broke off the front sprocket or something. It will jerk and then go back to normal. If I am already rolling with the clutch out in first gear, and then I lay on the throttle, it does it. Basically any time a lot of torque is applied to the driveline quickly. Its as if something in the driveline slips and then catches again. My chain does have WAY too much slack (it rests on the centerstand), could that be the issue? Thoughts?
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: Skeets on August 03, 2009, 03:39:22 PM
I know this might sound crazy but I had this same problem on my 07 Gs500f (that is now totaled). But under different circumstances. Mine would do it if I wasn't going fast enough. (like starting out in 2nd with not enough gas) It never did it before but a noise would come from the chain area.

Anyone know?
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: redhenracing2 on August 03, 2009, 05:05:38 PM
Quote from: Skeets on August 03, 2009, 03:39:22 PM
(like starting out in 2nd with not enough gas)
Why would you try to launch in second?
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: Paulcet on August 03, 2009, 05:26:50 PM
Quote from: redhenracing2 on August 03, 2009, 05:05:38 PM
Why would you try to launch in second?

I've done it.... Didn't make it into 1st at a light and didn't know it.  It was not pretty.

As to your clunk, it sounds like you are on the right track.  Just do it, then let us know if there is still a problem.
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: 08GSSteve on August 03, 2009, 06:41:33 PM
it is your chain and sprockets

Look at your sprocket teeth and I bet they are worn so bad they teeth look like shark fins.  When you crank the torque on the slack is being picket up and the worn teeth are slipping (clunk) then the front sprocket will grab.  It will get to the point where when you corner one day the chain will simply run off the sprocket and if you are lucky will not destroy your engine case.  If the teeth are not worn then get rid of that slack in the chain before you kill yourself and or your engine.



Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: Skeets on August 03, 2009, 08:02:09 PM
Quote from: redhenracing2 on August 03, 2009, 05:05:38 PM
Quote from: Skeets on August 03, 2009, 03:39:22 PM
(like starting out in 2nd with not enough gas)
Why would you try to launch in second?
Not launching in second...say a speed bump is coming and i slow down, I pull in clutch go over bump and and give gas let out clutch. When doing so it makes like a shudder noise near the chain.
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: redhenracing2 on August 03, 2009, 08:03:23 PM
Quote from: 08GSSteve on August 03, 2009, 06:41:33 PM
it is your chain and sprockets

Look at your sprocket teeth and I bet they are worn so bad they teeth look like shark fins.
Yeah I knew before-hand that my sprockets were in rough shape, along with the chain. I haven't looked at the front one myself but when the shop inspected it a few months ago they said it was on its last leg. Since it started doing this, I have been taking it very easy on the bike trying to keep it from doing it, but it seems to be getting worse. I just wanted to see if anybody thought it was something serious like a stripped gear or something? And thank you for your valuable input.
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: PaviSays on August 03, 2009, 09:23:01 PM
Eh, as for taking off in second, I do it all the time, hahah.  Unintentionally most of the time, I usually pull in the clutch and coast into parking position so I can just hit the kill switch, brake, then drop the clutch out in the spot.  I actually did that today parking outside my friend's house uphill.  I started out going up the hill in second from a stop.  No clunking or anything, but I knew something felt weird so I downshifted with no problems.  :dunno_white:

Back on topic here for a moment, it definitely sounds like your sprockets are wearing down.  Just wondering, could this also be a problem on a bicycle?  Back when I rode that thing probably 60-70 miles/week that would happen when in too high of a gear going up a hill.  My chain would pop off then catch back on.
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: redhenracing2 on August 03, 2009, 09:43:37 PM
Quote from: PaviSays on August 03, 2009, 09:23:01 PM
Back on topic here for a moment, it definitely sounds like your sprockets are wearing down.  Just wondering, could this also be a problem on a bicycle?  Back when I rode that thing probably 60-70 miles/week that would happen when in too high of a gear going up a hill.  My chain would pop off then catch back on.
EXACTLY. Thats why I immediately suspected the sprockets because it is EXACTLY like a bicycle doing that. I used to ride a good 50 miles a week myself and had that problem myself.
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: Bridger on August 03, 2009, 09:56:10 PM
Driveline?
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: redhenracing2 on August 03, 2009, 10:09:41 PM
Quote from: Bridger on August 03, 2009, 09:56:10 PM
Driveline?
That's what everything from the flywheel back is usually referred to as on a car. I work at a car dealership so I have a tendency to use terms that don't necessarily apply to bikes. As long as you get the point, does it really matter?
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: Bridger on August 03, 2009, 11:55:12 PM
It does matter, you're probably confusing people with your question and your customers at work.  Drivetrain is the term you're looking for, and the term you should be using at work.  A driveline is a specific part which is used on cars, trucks etc.  There is no driveline on a GS.  The drivetrain is all of the components that deliver power to the wheel(s) from the engine.  Transmission, drivelines transfer case, axles, rear end, CV's etc etc are automotive drivetrain components. 
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: redhenracing2 on August 04, 2009, 06:58:59 AM
Quote from: Bridger on August 03, 2009, 11:55:12 PM
Drivetrain is the term you're looking for

Well I'm a southern guy, we have our own lingo for stuff. And the two terms are interchangeable to us so I never realized there was a difference . . . . thanks for the info I guess. Anywho . . . . Im bout to go have a peek at my front sprocket. Pics will follow.
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: JB848 on August 04, 2009, 07:07:59 AM
Quote from: redhenracing2 on August 04, 2009, 06:58:59 AM
Quote from: Bridger on August 03, 2009, 11:55:12 PM
Drivetrain is the term you're looking for

Well I'm a southern guy, we have our own lingo for stuff. And the two terms are interchangeable to us so I never realized there was a difference . . . . thanks for the info I guess. Anywho . . . . Im bout to go have a peek at my front sprocket. Pics will follow.

I would try putting some zip ties around the front sprocket to take up the slack. Then check left rear blinker for N.C. mud insert.
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: redhenracing2 on August 04, 2009, 07:13:57 AM
Quote from: JB848 on August 04, 2009, 07:07:59 AM
I would try putting some zip ties around the front sprocket to take up the slack.
That was my first thought, but then I remembered that I used alll of them when I put it back together after painting it  :icon_sad:












*not (in reference to the idea that I actually thought of doing that. I wasnt kidding about the other part  8) )
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: DoD#i on August 04, 2009, 07:28:36 PM
Get off the computer, Grab a 10mm wrench (for the gearshift lever) and an 8mm socket & ratchet and get the sprocket cover off to have a look. Takes 5 minutes.

What you hope is wrong - worn teeth on sprocket, or worn splines on sprocket. Replace sprocket and chain and rear sprocket if needed, all better. Don't replace the sprocket and leave the chain - the old chain will ruin the new sprocket in short order.

What you hope is not wrong - splines on output shaft where sprocket mounts stripped. Repairable, but not economically - start looking for a scrapyard engine (and associated tranny - the whole point is to avoid the extensive labor and pricey parts needed to replace the tansmission output shaft).

Less likely - internal splines/gears  - remedy same as above - look for a usable unit from a scrapped bike.
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: redhenracing2 on August 05, 2009, 01:37:00 PM
Alright, I did some digging and got some pics. Not exactly sure what I'm supposed to be looking for so I ask you kind brethren: anything look out of order here?

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb144/redhen2/SSPX0534.jpg)

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb144/redhen2/SSPX0536.jpg)

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb144/redhen2/SSPX0535.jpg)

And note the slack in the chain, with it already adjusted out as far as it can go. Slight pressure downward will make it easily touch the centerstand, and pushing up will easily make it touch the swingarm. I know this is too much slack, but could it be causing my trouble here?

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb144/redhen2/SSPX0532.jpg)

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb144/redhen2/SSPX0533.jpg)
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: ohgood on August 05, 2009, 01:46:54 PM
that chain is soup. (done)

the front cog is soup. (done)

the rear cog ? dunno, it's prolly done too since there wasn't any oil even splashed on from roadway debris.

don't ride the bike with that much slack. really, it's like walking into a prison ward and begging for someone to amputate something.

the front cog doesn't even wrap 40%. once you see a new set it will be aparent.

the next question is "where can i get a 110 link chain and a 15T front cog... and will you guys look at my rear cog that i have provided nice clear, macro pictures of and tell me if it's done too  ?"

ok, that's about all for now. :)
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: JB848 on August 05, 2009, 01:59:58 PM
I don't think I have ever seen a front sprocket that worn even on a dirt bike!  :o
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: redhenracing2 on August 05, 2009, 02:03:10 PM
Quote from: ohgood on August 05, 2009, 01:46:54 PM
the next question is "where can i get a 110 link chain and a 15T front cog... and will you guys look at my rear cog that i have provided nice clear, macro pictures of and tell me if it's done too  ?"

ok, that's about all for now. :)
I was actually gonna go 14/39 when I replaced everything, still need a 110 chain? And as for my pitiful rear sprocket . . . well here it is . . . (I know its bad, thats why I didnt have to ask)

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb144/redhen2/SSPX0537.jpg)

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb144/redhen2/SSPX0538.jpg)

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb144/redhen2/SSPX0539.jpg)
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: redhenracing2 on August 05, 2009, 02:59:28 PM
Called around and priced out sprockets and chain. 14t front - $17(plus tax, but free shipping), 39t rear - $32(same deal). These are both from JT Sprockets, which was recommended to me by the dealer. As far as the chain:  EK Quadra x-ring 520 - $80. I have never bought a chain (or sprockets for that matter) before and really don't know much about them and the differences between them. Thoughts? Recommendations?
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: Bridger on August 05, 2009, 06:08:59 PM
After seeing the pics your mysterious clunk isn't so mysterious.....
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: johnny ro on August 05, 2009, 06:12:13 PM
my 0.02

that rear is even worse than front, the teeth look even more like hooks.

I havent bought sprocket and chain for couple years but would buy x ring again and the prices you quote don't seem high.

The wear on sprockets is what is reduced when you externally lube the chain rollers. The chain stretch is from wear inside the chain, if its not o-ring or xring then its from not lubing it, if is oring or xring its because rings wore outor dried up then wore out and factory lube went away. Rust will wrceck the orings, another reason to lube a chain. when sprocket or chain wear they feed each others failure. so always replace the whole set and lube as recommmended.

If you keep riding on old stuff, chain could break, or fall off sideways and you lock wheel and or engine up, maybe go down. Maybe take out case part, too.
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: ohgood on August 05, 2009, 07:05:07 PM
Quote from: redhenracing2 on August 05, 2009, 02:59:28 PM
Called around and priced out sprockets and chain. 14t front - $17(plus tax, but free shipping), 39t rear - $32(same deal). These are both from JT Sprockets, which was recommended to me by the dealer. As far as the chain:  EK Quadra x-ring 520 - $80. I have never bought a chain (or sprockets for that matter) before and really don't know much about them and the differences between them. Thoughts? Recommendations?

you do know that 14t is going to make spirited starts into oh-my-god-i-hope-there-weren't-any-cops-around-to-see-that! moments, right ? 14t = wheelie machine. i had a 14t (my neighbors) on for one day. it was just too easy to bring the front up for my commuting tastes. ;)

ok, disclaimer is done. sure, those prices aren't terrible. i don't recall what length the 14t needs to be proper. 15t = 110 links just fine, just as the 16t (stock) and 110 links is fine. if you don't want to rivit the chain yourself, let someone at hte dealer do it. clip type master lnks get a bad wrap. i like em myself. that's a whole nother debate ;)

while you have the rear wheel off and all, take a look at your brake disc. it looks kinda rough in one of those shots. might be getting thin or be burned. dunno.

when you get it all back together, lube it weekly or at least act like it's weekly. my (neglect) first chain lasted >20,000 miles wihtout a problem. it was an o-ring chain, and i lubed it every other ride or so. just  a splash of 10w40 and a wipe off. no big deal. then i tried a non o-ring chain. 3,000 miles and it was dead. don't make that cheap mistake ;)

good luck !
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: redhenracing2 on August 05, 2009, 07:35:36 PM
Yeah I know about the whole 14t=wheelies, but I literally NEVER touch interstate when riding anywhere that I need to go normally, so losing a bit of top-end in return for making it more fun around town is something I can live with. Plus that will keep me in the higher rpm range more, which will increase my gas mileage because my other cylinder will be firing a larger percentage of the time. As it is now, I have to wait for it to kick in when going through second and third gear, so making it shorter will reduce that hesitation and make it much more enjoyable. Plus a wheelie every now and then can be fun, I kinda miss doing that on my old F3. Squidly, I know. Anywho . . .

Should I be worried about takin a link out or will a 110 chain work? And should I be able to replace all of this with basic tools, in my driveway, with no experience whatsoever?
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: redhenracing2 on August 07, 2009, 02:32:03 PM
14t, 39t, and 520 EK Quadra X-Ring chain now en route. Should be here tuesday or so. Does anyone know if a link needs to be removed for the 14t, or should 110 link chain still work? And ease of installation for all this, tips, advice?
Title: Re: so something in my driveline now *clunks*
Post by: sledge on August 08, 2009, 03:22:35 PM
Quote from: redhenracing2 on August 05, 2009, 01:37:00 PM
Alright, I did some digging and got some pics. Not exactly sure what I'm supposed to be looking for so I ask you kind brethren: anything look out of order here?

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb144/redhen2/SSPX0534.jpg)

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb144/redhen2/SSPX0536.jpg)

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb144/redhen2/SSPX0535.jpg)

And note the slack in the chain, with it already adjusted out as far as it can go. Slight pressure downward will make it easily touch the centerstand, and pushing up will easily make it touch the swingarm. I know this is too much slack, but could it be causing my trouble here?

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb144/redhen2/SSPX0532.jpg)

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb144/redhen2/SSPX0533.jpg)

Your chain is way too loose.
It needs lube, see the red dust? that is down to microscopic particles of metal wearing off the sprocket and rusting due to contact with the moisture in the atmosphere.
Clean and check the splines on the OP shaft, lubricate with heavy grease
The front and back sprockets are out of alignment, see the shiny section under each trough on the front sprocket?

Replace the lot and start again, make sure the sprockets are aligned, lube the splines and keep the chain correctly tensioned and lubed........oh and check the cushdrive rubbers in the wheel. hub.