Strange noise at 5 mph!

Hope someone can help a newbie to the Swing. I bought my 2005 around the 1st of January. It had 4600 mi. on it and was a one owner.

The last couple of rides I have noticed a strange noise coming from the rear. Does the variator belt make noise at low speeds. Is this something that I should be concerned about?

Thanks in advance for any help on this.

James

James,

The noise is probably from the clutch becoming glazed. You can get rid of this by holding in the front brake and reving the engine up to about 4,000 rpm for 4-5 seconds. The SWing can get this sound if you take off slowly or are caught in stop and go traffic a lot. Try it and see if it works.

Thanks Jeff. I will try this tomorrow and report back. It takes awhile to get used to all of the little ins and outs.

James

Jeff,

Is there any safe way to rev to 4000 rpms and apply the front brake? I did this this morning. It was a little spooky!

James

It really isn't bad once you do it. You can even hold the rear brake in too if you want. That is easier to do but just hold one brake in really tight and try it. You will smell a bit of a burning smell but it goes away in a few seconds. Try holding the rear brake instead if you want.

Thanks. I thought I was going to launch this morning.

The D wrote:

Jeff,

Is there any safe way to rev to 4000 rpms and apply the front brake? I did this this morning. It was a little spooky!

James

Start with the brake engaged. That is static, not moving. :flower: :flower:

Thanks.

I too was wondering about this issue. I have the same noise. I wasn't to sure about holding the front brake in either. Made more sense to hold the rear brake in. Thank's Jeff for clarifying.

Cathy

I only have 1,700 miles on mine and it is a 2008.

I also have the same noise. Almost like a belt is slipping.

I notice it more when I come to a complete stop, then go up my steep driveway.

The steep driveway is how I first noticed this noise.

You could also put it up on the center stand for this and stand next to the bike, correct? That might be more comfortable for some.

It is possible, yes, just keep the rear brake fully engaged to prevent the rear wheel from spinning. The clutch will not be de-glazed if the wheel is allowed to turn.

Thanks everyone. Took care of it this morning and no more noises.

The D,

And, how did you fix this?

I started the engine and kept the rear brake engaged. I then revved the engine to 4000rpm's and held it for about 5 seconds or so. ...Bad smell.... Then I went for a ride. Haven't heard it since.

James

Just curious -- anyone out there with a Malossi clutch; do they do the "tuc-tuc dance" like the stocker? That's tuc-tuc, not tuk-tuk...

This brings up a question from a nube. How long does the clutch last?????

Thanks.

I am not comfortable performing this.

You think there is any harm leaving as is?

The D wrote:

This brings up a question from a nube. How long does the clutch last?????

The clutch lasts quite a while, I'm sure there have been some that have worn out. I have been on the various SilverWing forums since 2006 and I seem to recall reading of 2 or 3 clutch replacements. Due to wear or the overcautious nature of the majority of SilverWing owners? I don't know.

ehaughn wrote:

Thanks.

I am not comfortable performing this.

You think there is any harm leaving as is?

I was skeptical at first about this procedure. I'd even seen photos of a scorched cluch/variator face. Was the scorching due to this procedure? Don't know. I have performed the procedure probably 6 or 7 times in the 5 years we've owned our 2 bikes. No scorching, and the drive belts have not shown any sign of unusual wear at replacement.

There is no harm in leaving as is. I'd suggest as an alternative - very spirited starts from a stop. Tough on mileage, but fun and keeps the squeal at bay. Long days of sustained riding in very hot weather can also lead to the dreaded squeal. The aforementioned spirited take off practice tends to keep the squeal down in that instance.