Street Sweeper???

[jfortenbery]

Hey! I'm new to the list and two weeks new to BMW. Purchased a sweet 2004 R1150R with 4,500 miles on it. Previous owner wasn't exactly an enthusiast - so care was minimal. But, it was kept in a garage and not dropped, so i figure it can't have been hurt too bad in 4,500 miles. Still has the original Metzlers on it.

Here's my question ... I noticed on my trip home this am a whining noise at an intersection. Sounded like a street sweeper somewhere. I looked all around and couldn't see it anywhere. Proceeded through the green light and 1/2 mile later, came to a stop sign. Notice the same whine, whirr, whistling sound. Thought to myself, "that must be one loud street sweeper!" A mile later I pull in my driveway and I can still hear that dang streetsweeper! Then it dawned on me ... it's me making that noise. Pulled in the garage and determined its the fuel pump whining ... or maybe cavitating? No running issues - just noise - for now ...

Questions are:

1) is this a common problem w/ these bikes?
2) where is the thing located?
3) are there any threads on replacement procedures?

I'm an experienced car mechanic ... BMW, Porsche, Mercedes and a GMC truck. I know Bosch systems pretty well, so the job won't be a big deal, but I'd appreciate any tips on accessing the pump, best place to by OE quality replacement, anything else should be done while I'm in there, etc.

Loving this list and learning a lot! Sorry I had to ask a repair question so soon. Was hoping to get a summer out of it before picking up the wrenches!

thanks in advance,
Jeff Fortenbery
http://www.fortenberyguitars.com

Favorite Quote: "What we believe is not what we say we believe ... what we believe is what we do"

[sweatmark]

Welcome to the group, hope you enjoy your new bike.

Is your bike equipped with ABS?

If "yes", then the brake servo pump operation is likely what you hear, as it's loud enough to be noticeable over idling motor.

If "no", then your guess at fuel pump seems the only option. I can hear my fuel pump running when key is turned to Run, but not after the engine starts and drowns out the more subtle bike sounds.

[Railbender]

How much fuel is in the tank? The less fuel the more pronounced the fuel pump noise is.

[jfortenbery]

To Railbender ... over 1/2 tank. I'm pretty sure this isn't "normal". I've run down to near empty before and I never heard this. It's VERY noticeable. Louder than the exhaust of the engine ...

[sweatmark]

If it really is the fuel pump:

Pump inside tank.
Must remove tank to access.
Pump removal is tricky, search this site for info. Reinstall and gasket positioning are key.
Not normal to hear pump howling.

You didn't answer: ABS yes or no.

[jfortenbery]

ABS: No

I'm assuming the growling is the fuel pump, because if I turn the key on, it growls for about 3-5 seconds and stops - as if the fuel pump were pressurizing the system. Then, when I start the bike, it starts again. It plenty loud enough to be heard over the engine and exhaust note.

Also, when I pull the fuel pump relay - the noise stops. Seems to me to be a pretty solid diagnosis - but again - open to the wisdom of the group!

Also, where is the best source for OE quality parts - but maybe not dealer prices? Automotive aftermarket has lot of options - but I'm new to the motorcycle market.

Thanks again,
Jeff

[Railbender]

Beemerboneyard is excellent.

http://www.beemerboneyard.com/r81111r1fupu.html