Ducati Sporting Club UK > Model Specific - Discussion, Technical Problems and Help > Supersports: SS / SuperSport / Supersport 950 > Noisey Valves?

[chris_thorne]

I have a 2002 900SS which has done about 1000 miles. When the engine is not upto full working temperature (first 5-8 miles) there is a metallic noise from the front of the engine (when running below 4000rpm). When the engine is fully warm this happens to a much reduced level. Are the valve clearances wrong or is it just part of the Ducati experience?

[Jools]

That's it in a word...

Desmo valvegear can sound like a bag of spanners until it warms up. I know mine does!

[phillc]

Yeah my 1999 750ss has the same sound. In the first couple of weeks I was pretty panicky. That was until I took it in for my first service, mentioned it to the mechanic and they didn't quite laugh but did certainly assure me that it was nothing to worry about.

[Monty]

Never hear the valve gear on my ST4S-mainly because the rattle from the clutch is so LOUD

John

[kfz2]

Its when their quiet you need to worry. Its shouldnt really be a ratter more a whirring sound.

Just mention it at the first service.

[paynep]

..or fit noisy pipes!

[psychlist]

[Zimbo]

I rode without ear plugs for the first time in yonks the other day....I thought the thing was about to fall to bits between my legs. Very un-nerving.
zimbo

[chris_thorne]

Finally took the bike back to the dealer after much deliberation and they have confirmed that the valve adjustment is out. It is booked back in to have the work done. I'll let you know what the root cause is when the work is complete.

Chris

[chris_thorne]

The root cause of the noise appears to be a scuffed bore and piston on the front cylinder. Has anyone suffered the same fate? I'm going to inspect the bearing shells and oil pump for signs of damage from the debris. If anything looks worn then I'm going to ask for a new engine?!? The bike is only 6 months old (2002 model).

Any advice or comments?

Chris