Vulcan Drifter Riders

DISCUSSIONS => Drifter 1500 only => Topic started by: moto on September 21, 2026, 08:33:17 AM

Title: Rattling sound
Post by: moto on September 21, 2026, 08:33:17 AM
There is a rattling sound coming from the right side of the bike at idle, but it disappears when the clutch is pulled in. So, it only occurs at idle or at very low RPMs.
Is this serious? Could the clutch be failing? The transmission works fine, though, and all the gears engage smoothly.
Title: Re: Rattling sound
Post by: Fab on September 22, 2026, 01:28:41 AM
Hey @moto 

If I were you, I'd take the motorcycle to a local mechanic or motorcycle shop and have them listen to the noise.

It might be a minor issue, but it's always better than getting stranded on the side of the road if something breaks down along the way.


Title: Re: Rattling sound
Post by: drifter-paul on September 22, 2026, 18:45:24 PM
1 - Crack the throttle (like a hoon) in 3rd at about 60K/35MPH . If it takes a second for acceleration to catch up - you have worn clutch plates .

2 - Check this post . rear spark plug on right side of motorcycle, forward spark plug on left . You will see a recessed ("23 mm") hex plug . remove spark plug and check for groove in each aluminum tunnel . This will tell you the cam chains are worn and rubbing thru .

3 - If mechanically minded, you can find articles in this forum to replace the Cam chain tensioners -  and replace the convex/ concave plates in the clutch - these wear first -   otherwise refer previous answer

https://www.vulcandrifterriders.com/forum/index.php/board,124.0.html
Title: Re: Rattling sound
Post by: Troll on September 23, 2026, 07:37:23 AM
Clutch basket wear. Mine has done it for years. Most noticeable when it's cold. Pretty much goes away after the engine is up to temp, but not completely gone. I have 155,000 miles on the bike, as of right now.
Title: Re: Rattling sound
Post by: moto on September 24, 2026, 07:04:02 AM
Quote from: Troll on Yesterday at 07:37:23 AMClutch basket wear. Mine has done it for years. Most noticeable when it's cold. Pretty much goes away after the engine is up to temp, but not completely gone. I have 155,000 miles on the bike, as of right now.

Well, you think that I can drive with that sound, so engine dont break ? I have 47 000km mileage.

I use 20w-50 mineral oil.  Could switching to a different type of oil help, 10w-40 perhaps ?
Title: Re: Rattling sound
Post by: Troll on September 24, 2026, 07:42:36 AM
Mine rattles louder with 10-40, so I always run 20-50. Transmission is quieter with 20-50, too. I don't like synthetic oils (many reasons, too many to list here) so I use Valvoline conventional 20-50 motorcycle oil. My 1500 has 249,500 Km on it.