engine knock

[dayser]

I just picked up an 09 Gl 1800...traded my 01...I was down close to the side with it idling and it sounded like there was a slight knock in the engine...just wondering if I am hearing things and if this is a normal sound...it does have a warranty till 2016...just wondering if anyone has had that issue...the oil was freshly changed and it looks like they might have got a bit much in it..could that affect the sound...

[Viking]

Yes, too much oil could even cause the sound. If there is too much, you should remove a bit. Too much oil can be very hard on seals also. There has been comment in Wing World magazine about a mild knock sound in the GL1800s, or in some of them. It seems it is considered to be a functional sound and not anything to be concerned with. My 2009 does not have a knock but it has a whisper as it runs, which could very well be just a different level of the sound as your knock. My theory is that we need to "ride em till the wheels fall off".

[peppilepew]

I just purchased a 2012. I have a knock also. I can feel the vibration at idle. Touch the right upper section of the engine while running and see if you can feel it. Please let me know.