Excessive engine noise

I will check all the hoses and make sure they are routed correctly. I know that some of them are the original hoses and a bit crispy. As for the "chain case/bolt" conversation are you talking about the Isolastic mounts? If so that is one of the next thinks to check/adjust on the list. Out of town this weekend but I plan to get back to the bike tomorrow night. Thanks again!

 

The inner primary case shim is best seen in the blow apart like the one on Old Britts webpage. Item number 11
http://www.oldbritts.com/1972_g8.html

 

TimmyC: the chain case is the left side engine cover...nothing to do with isolastics. The chain case Cover is held on by one nut in the middle and a few locating dowels around the perimeter.
I checked mine as advised from Baz above, and could not see any movement/separation at the inboard mounting stud when I released the nut. Also tried changing nut tension with engine idling to see if any change to higher pitched rattle/scraping sound...none detected.

 

Rattling and scraping noises.

If you are certain they are from the left (primary) side, I would be looking at the alternator. Specifically the spacing on the rotor and stator. There is the entire clutch assembly to be concerned with as well. You can remove the cover and run the bike to see what is going on in there. Just don't have any loose clothing or long hair to catch in the chain! It is not unusual for the clutch hub to wobble around some but it shouldn't be allowing any scraping anywhere. Doing this runs the chain without lube. It will hold enough oil for you to do this for a view but I wouldn't run down the road like that.

You can also get rattling and scraping from the timing side. It is worth checking to make sure both chains are adjusted correctly. And that noting is actually scraping against a cover.

These bikes do make a fair amount of noise compared to a modern bike.

 

Hello all!
A brief update. I changed the plugs and started to adjust the carbs, it was running very rich in the right hand cylinder. When out for a few test runs and on the last ride I happen to look down and oil was pouring from the engine. I pulled over, started to look things over and discovered that rocker feed line had blown off the banjo fitting. On a positive note I was pleasantly surprised at how easily the bike moved along as I walked it home. I ordered a set of SS replacement lines and hope to get them installed today. I am trying to get the bike roadworthy and reliable so that I can meet up with the Michigan Norton Owners group later in August for a ride to Port Hope, MI.
Thanks again!