BMW R1200R R1150R/T F800 K1200R R1100R/T R1250R RnineT Message Board

Hey team,
Someone tell me if I'm losing my mind. I'm in the habit (a new one) of changing my oil about twice a year (from 10W-40 20w-50). The last two times I've changed it, I've noticed a slight tapping in the valves, nothing anyone else would blink at, but I notice it. It feel like they were set perfectly.

But I know we're not all doing Valve clearance twice a year...so what gives? am I just doing crappy work and its just happy coincidence ? or is it the oil actually affecting my valves?


much love,
cFogs

I would not expect an oil change to adversely affect valve noise. If going from 20-50 to 10-40 possibly the lighter oil may allow a bit more noise but not much I would think. Can you be a bit more specific? Just at start up, or running after warmed up etc?

Hey, thanks for the reply.
Again, it's barely noticeable, anyone riding a Harley, Jap Bike, etc wouldn't think a thing about it. I only notice it at Idle, and it's persistent throughout the ride, doesn't change from start up to 2 hours in.

Is there a chance it could be the Cam Chain Tensioner? I know that works on oil pressure. (This could be completely wrong, I'm just throwing out ideas) I still have the old Cam Chain Tensioner, I ordered the new one & it should be hear tomorrow.


Again,maybe I'm just crazy

I noticed the tapping was less when the BMW dealer advised I switch to 20W/50. Using semi synth Fuchs all year. Well, I only ride March to October in the UK.
I also attribute tapping to the oil tensioner. My ear plugs work just fine. It is only the odd occasion when I move the bike for an MOT test or into the garage when I hear it.