Fine glitter in engine oil.

[zrx24]

I've noticed over the past few months that my dirt bike ('03 KLX 400R) has developed a "growl" that emits from the lower engine area, most noticeable on decel. Just recently the growl has become MUCH more noticeable. So while home for lunch today I drained some oil out of the engine and sadly found the oil to be filled with a very fine gold'ish colored glitter. ?

Guess I can't put it off any longer.

So what all should I consider replacing while the engine is torn apart? Engine has 500 (hard) hours on it.

[Perry G.]

your engine may be ok, when have you replaced your clutch? gold glitter sounds like the metal from the clutch plates wearing off.

[zrx24]

your engine may be ok, when have you replaced your clutch? gold glitter sounds like the metal from the clutch plates wearing off.

Hmmm. That's a thought. Seems like this glitter would have shown up in previous oil changes. Unless maybe they've suddenly started wearing more rapidly or something. Clutch hasn't been acting up at all though.

It's this low end "growl" on decel that has suddenly become much more pronounced that has me thinking crank bearings.

[bob_e95482]

Go through it with a magnet. Air bubbles get suspended in the oil and look like metal.