1995 Kawasaki Bayou 220 ticking noise

[Khanh845]

Hi all, new here and trying to figure out an issue with a Bayou 220 I just got. It sounds (to my novice ears) like it ticks more than other engines I’ve heard.  I also hear it occasionally backfire (briefly) and the engine gets very hot (I’ve never run it enough to shut down).

I’m thinking it needs a valve clearance adjustment but I’m wondering if any other experienced Bayou owners or anyone else has any ideas before I start tearing into something I don’t need to?  Thanks everyone!

Edited May 16, 2021 by Khanh845

[Ajmboy]

If you haven't done this yet,  I would change the oil, check the air filter, and check/replace the spark plug. Any difference in running when you apply the choke? 

[Khanh845]

Thanks for this. I can definitely do that. I don’t know when it was last changed since I just picked it up but can I ask why or how that might make the ticking sound? 

[Arizona]

I would still adjust the valves, everyone i have had has been out of adjustment

[Khanh845]

well I adjusted the valves four times. I tried setting it at the low and high end of the range in the service manual and it still ticks. I wonder if there’s just something wrong with he valves themselves or something more. 

[MarkinAR]

Timing chain is probably stretched and slapping the case.  Folks never replace those and don't until they break and throw the piston into the valves.

[Arizona]

Had a 300, had new timing chain plus other new parts and still made a racket from that motor, ran great. Ended up selling

never figured it out. 

 

[SashaGraves21]

You could have a knock in the engine block.