My XJ600 (known as the FJ in other countries) has a tick come click coming from the right hand side of the cylinder head. I checked the valve clearances and found two tight ones and two loose ones. Both shims that had a gap larger than spec were on the right hand side of the engine. Set shim gaps and fired it up. Ticking still there. It is really rather loud and noticeable on startup but usually either disappears completely after thirty seconds to a couple of minutes or just disappears amongst the usual valve, camchain and exhaust noise. It has been getting noticeable on occasion while riding the bike. This noise just started one day after I washed it. It ticked for a few seconds and then it was gone. It didn't do it again for a few days then did it on startup again. The gaps between it ticking when starting got shorter and shorter until it is clicking all the time when it starts up. What the hell is going on? My possible culprits are:- Valve shims - but these are now set. Coils or HT Leads tracking - but unlikely. Camchain tensioner stuck - But ticking more noticeable on one side of the engine? Stuck valve - But engine doesn't appear to have lots any power. Broken valve spring - But I hope not because I'd need to take the head off. Possible blow from head gasket, inet rubbers, exhaust gasket - but unlikely. Can anyone shed any light on this mystery?
