BSA A65 post test ride checks and an inevitable conclusion.

[@guitarzanbikes1862]

You'll probably find everything in the bottom end worn and at the limit but nothing actially worn out beyond those limits. Having worked on A65's for almost 50 years they all go rough, rattly & a bit knocky as they wear depending on use. Years ago many lads just ran em like that till they went bang! They are tough motors but this one is saying "if you don't sort me out soon, I'll let a rod see daylight" A bit too much wear everywhere but nothing actually terminal... yet! I speak from experience lol!

[@amelierenoncule]

As Sherlock would say, "The plot thickens. "

[@blearyview2254]

I really do enjoy watching the you investigating these problems. It like a mystery movie but you always get there in the end, a bit like Miss Marple 😁

[@BLUESBOYBENFIELD]

This goes nicely with a sausage sandwich 👍

[@daveco1270]

I didn't realize the crank shaft flywheel was that accessible on those bikes. Can you remove and clean the sludge trap by going in under the bike? On my 64 Triumph 650 I'm assuming the sludge trap can't be reached without splitting the cases. Seems like it's accessible on this bike without even pulling the engine.

[@peter7624]

The rods need to come off the crank to do the sludge traps as far as I am aware.

[@paulhenshaw4514]

Sadly, the crank has to come out to access the sludge trap, and it is best to remove the conrods too.

[@daveco1270]

@@paulhenshaw4514 thanks. That makes sense. I've never taken one of these apart.

[@clive1860]

Hi Paul. I have not heard you mention whether there's a possibility of a loose alternator rotor on the drive side end of the crank, this as you will know, can sound like a crank, big end knock issue looking forward to the eventual identity of the culprit.

[@Harpy-Mark-Tomlinson]

I think it's called worn out. I've seen the same thing on a Triumph. New big end, small end and main bearings sorted it. Luckily it wasn't mine.

[@davefrench3608]

This one is going to be interesting once you get inside.

[@neilmcintosh1200]

I keep expecting you to drop on the cause, but still up in the air. On to the next episode.

[@jlh2701]

I wouldn't care to hazard a guess with this one, all i could have had a guess at you've covered with no real improvements, so, I'll wait with anticipation to what you find next

[@sicks6six]

I'm still thinking top end, pistons, rebored then maybe an aftermarket piston of maybe the wrong weight, crown height, skirt cutouts, something, could be general wear on all main-shaft bearings getting to the point of no return. . . complete rebuild will sort it for sure, expensive but then you will have an engine that will go on for many years,

[@tonybritten3070]

Be interesting to see what oversize the pistns are , if it's maximum bore & after market pistons they may well be a fair bit heavier than the standard ones when the crank was originally balanced & I'm sure that would make it tingle a bit , very interesting about the ignition timing marker too Paul , if I set my Lightning by the mark it pinks under load so had to retard it a fair bit to stop it , makes sense if the mark on the rotor is potentially out like this one was , keep the videos coming Paul .

[@stevewilliams5428]

It could have HC pistons fitted, a skimmed head or a thin head gasket, or all three?

[@richardandrews6754]

long shot this one but could it be the primary chain is too tight and or worn out, making it run rough over the sprockets just a thought, great video as always Paul

[@VinceJones-uj3cm]

Sometimes the rotor comes loose from its hub and starts to rattle arround even though its tight on the shaft. Good luck. I wish I had your patience.

[@BLUESBOYBENFIELD]

Never had a problem with a sloppy bush……even with an oily squelch….😉

[@basilwatson1]

in the other video I wondered , worn mounting bolt holes /cracked frame? and/or as Paul said oversized pistons and incorrect crank balance!

[@raycollington4310]

Apologies for not following all the history of this bike, the question for me is, did the bike run fine and developed an issue, or has it had maintenance attention that has caused or help create the issue? Good interesting video Paul. Thank you.

[@clive1860]

Hi Paul, Was following this A65, vibes/noises with interest but do not see any further progress vids was the culprit ('s) identified, were there more follow on vids I have missed. Know you would not have given up, and gone to the pub (too early)

[@paulhenshaw4514]

Hi Clive, thanks for your interest. This is just one of currently 34 videos on a growing playlist dedicated to this machine. I am currently rebuilding the engine. kzbin.info/aero/PLNiCL5QKptFUSXclAx2fxOcbBZg0RP4F8&si=3YCvj9_NKwJd-ftm

[@thepipesmokingbeekeeper8917]

Hi Paul Thinking of buying a BSA Starfire what are your opinions of them Thanks Terry

[@paulhenshaw4514]

Hi Terry - I like them, but as with anything, there are good ones and bad ones out there! A few of my videos feature Starfires.

[@foamyflightmaster9385]

Not being a smart ... But have you confirmed the engine mounts are tight? Following along with interest on this one. 🤩

[@stevewilliams5428]

Is the alternator OK? before you strip down could be a problem with rotor/stator interface if the crank is slightly worn.

[@peter7624]

Aye, loose or out of balance rotor?

[@stevewilliams5428]

@@peter7624 If the crank mains have wear the rotor can impinge on the stator, I've had that before where the heat welds them together and seizes the engine.