Yikes- odd slap and a squeak noise---- 2012 S10

[AspentureRider]

Okay, engine-sleuths-

I'm getting the oddest noise... it sounds like someone is slapping the inside of the engine case once in a while with a wet towel, occasionally with a squeak like it might be a rubber towel.
Never at rest, not at startup (normal clackety-clack from CCT quiets down immediately)... usually when I'm just loafing along at low revs. Only thing I can think of is CCT? But why a squeak? Bike has 30K miles. 2012. No major engine mods other than ECU flash.

I did a search and found no similar slap-squeak complaints...

Thoughts? Suggestions? Much appreciated-
Mike

 

[EricV]

Look at the rubber boot around the u-joint where the shaft goes into the transmission/engine.

My other thought is that the plastic guide for the cam chain is out of position and getting chewed at by the cam chain. Seems unlikely unless you've had some CCT work done.

After that, WAG would be clutch plates/springs.

Ride next to a concrete wall and the noise will echo off the wall and possibly be more pronounced. I would, if possible, do this in both directions and see if it sounds louder or more distinct on one side or the other. Different things on different sides of the bike.

 

[AspentureRider]

Thanks, EricV. I'll check those ideas out. It's so random it's tough to pin down.

Look at the rubber boot around the u-joint where the shaft goes into the transmission/engine.

My other thought is that the plastic guide for the cam chain is out of position and getting chewed at by the cam chain. Seems unlikely unless you've had some CCT work done.

After that, WAG would be clutch plates/springs.

Ride next to a concrete wall and the noise will echo off the wall and possibly be more pronounced. I would, if possible, do this in both directions and see if it sounds louder or more distinct on one side or the other. Different things on different sides of the bike.

 

[Boris]

Your description sounds like a leak to me, airbox not seated correctly, plug not seated, exhaust header leaking......that sort of thing.

You had any maintenance done lately?

 

[AspentureRider]

No maintenance done lately. It just doesn't sound like an aspirated noise... really more percussive, like something slapping inside the case. But I'll explore your ideas, thanks-

Your description sounds like a leak to me, airbox not seated correctly, plug not seated, exhaust header leaking......that sort of thing.

You had any maintenance done lately?

 

[Checkswrecks]

I've heard exhaust leaks like that. Check the head to headers and for a loose connection near the footpads.