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Engine rattling sound when accelerating

10K views 10 replies 8 participants last post by  ducduc  
#1 ·
Make: Ducati
Model: 1998 748

Whenever I accelerate there is a rattling sound coming from the engine. It only happens when the bike is in gear, however doesn't happen when i rev the throttle while in nuetral. Is something loose inside the cam and tearing the hell out of it? Its been awile since i've been inside the engine. Could it be a flaked rocker, a loose bolt, or something else? Its been awhile since i've had the clutch basket changed however I don't think this has anything to do with it although it is definanlty time to get that changed. Thoughts?
 
#3 ·
Well, if it is not happening in Neutral, it is probably a transmission problem. I don't know much about the transmissions on the bike, but that seems to be the logical place to start. Unfortunately a tranny problem almost always means cracking open and taking a look.
 
#5 ·
I've been running 92 octane. Your response is interesting as I know one of the cyclinders is running a little lean and hiccups around 4 grand rpm. That spot in the rpm range seems to get caught and the bike loses power. Anything above or below is fine. Could those sounds be pre-ignited bursts?
 
#9 ·
My 748 did that when I got it. It was a really grooved, worn-out clutch basket.
 
#10 ·
Thank you all for your replies. I understand the 3800 rpm stutter can be fixed by a good power commander and a dyno tune? I think it is a very worn clutch basket and the engine doesn't rattle when i'm acclerated. It makes the sound, although runs fine, and doesn't stutter at anything other than the classic 3800 rpm problem. I'm due for some maintenance.