[EricPringle]

imported post

Hi all, after fitting a new alternator I took the bike out for a 400 km run yesterday. As I was returning I stopped on the offramp to the highway to wait for my buddy. Much to my dismay I noticed a horrible rumbling noise coming from the front of the motor and a vibration which disappears at about 3000 rpm. Could it be a collapsed cambelt idler bearing?



Sorry forgot to mention this is on the 1500.

 

[EricPringle]

imported post

Thanks Agnogel, I guess I'll have to start pulling tupperware, again, tonight. I'm starting to feel rather despondent concerning this bike. Since I bought it, it's just been one thing after the other. I've fitted new tyres, changed out oil, plugs, filters etc. Replaced the rear disc and pads. First long run the alternator packs up. Second run I get back and all this horrible noise and vibration. I don't think this bike likes me and the feeling is rapidly becoming mutual. It's spending more time in my workshop than on the road. Not to mention the dreaded stumbling between idle and 2000 rpm. I'm starting to regret buying the damn thing!

 

[EricPringle]

imported post

Hi Bondy, this aint no clutch rumble. It's much worse than that. Maybe I should describe it as a busted bearing noise. I'll pull the covers tonight and check. Let you know in the morning what I find.

 

[EricPringle]

imported post

Hi all, just an update. I started the bike when I got home last night. You won't believe it but it's the brand new alternator!
Agnogel's trick with the screwdriver pinpointed the problem although it's so noisy it was easy to determine where the noise was coming from.
I pulled the alt and it appears that the rotor has moved so far back as to allow the rear cooling fan to contact the diffuser in front of the rectifier plate, and the drive coupling has rubbed against the front cover with enough friction to burn the new damper rubbers. Even the drive coupling has turned blue from the heat.
The old alternator was also damaged in this fashion but the PO mentioned having had the alt repaired.
Is it possible that the drive coupling in the motor is forcing the rotor back while under load? When installing the alternator I managed to move it fully home without having to use the bolts to seat it so I know there is no force there while the motor is not running.
I have searched the forum and have not come across anyone else experiencing this problem.
Honda tells me there is no guarantee on electrical parts but I will nevertheless contact them and see what they have to say. This alt has after all, only done 500 km.