transmission whine

[mikehallbackhoe]

since going to the darkside, I have noticed more transmission whine than usual. has anybody else noticed this?

[rodeo1]

big mac did, cost him 3,000 dollars

[TAZ]

I would next time taking that back wheel off check your drive shaft from beginning to end to make sure everything is greased properly.  In the pumpkin area at the front of the drive shaft clean that area out, make sure the weep holes are cleaned out of any rust and metal flakes, lubed correctly and inspect the flanges to make sure they are not worn from lack of grease.  I found that out last year in the Black Hills that even when taking bike to shop for rear wheel replacement they should but don't inspect that drive shaft and up towards the motor where it connects to check for things like this and then it gets real rusty, dried up and premature failure do to the 3 holes being plugged up and not lube getting through and the grease has long been worn off.  Which equates into parts failure and $$$ and being stuck out where you don't want to be.  Give that rear end a real good look over and clean and grease where ever needed.

[mikehallbackhoe]

thanks taz, I will check it out, though I am fairly certain it is the transmission whine. it only does it in 5th gear at 50- 55, and most noticeably on an uphill grade. I really noticed it yesterday when running close to reserve, so no fuel to muffle the sound. just seems to be louder since going to the darkside. I also seem to notice it more the lower air pressure I try. I assume it is because of the extra traction putting more of a load on the engine. oh well, I guess I will have to shift down 

[Valker]

Sounds like the 'bolt' noise: http://www.rattlebars.com/valkfaq/#NOISE

[mikehallbackhoe]

went for a ride this evening, and downshifted on the grades, no whine

[oldman]

Mike,
It is possible the "whine" noise was there all the time, but your tire noise kept you from hearing it???

[mikehallbackhoe]

yes,the noise was always there, it just seems louder .the whine is only noticeable on a grade. downshifting solves the problem. the car tire definitely has less rolling resistance than the motorcycle tire. coasting with the cartire is reduced. quite simply, more tread on the road equals better traction, more strain on the drive train. I am not worried about the extra strain, as I am not over loading the valk in any way. it is just an observation. if you ever get over to trinity county, let me know. would love to go for a ride. 

[oldman]

Mike stated:

if you ever get over to trinity county, let me know. would love to go for a ride. 

Spend a lot of time riding around on this side of the mountain, rarely get to I-5.  Have been thru your country a couple of times in the last several years on the way to the coast.  Would like to ride Hwy 3 from 36 on north.   Not sure we will be headed that way this summer (trying to sell our home).   If we do point the Valk that way, I will check to see if you are available for a ride.

[weedhop]

I run a205-65-16 Kumho HP4, Higher gearing, Does whine a little more with the larger tire,
Still like the higher gearing, I use Mobile 1 15-50 , that decreases the gear whine noticeably