I have developed a new rattle - when I disengage the clutch when accelerating, it sounds like a sewing machine running wild. I did change the headlight bulb, and thought it might be that, but the rattle seems pretty specific - when the load is removed from the motor. In addition, it really runs better with the choke half open, just opening it up feels like I twisted the throttle a 1/4 turn. I have run half a can of sea foam through it, and added the rest to a fill up today.
Is my motor about to blow up?
Background:
It is a 2001 Savage with 2500 miles. I have put 500 miles on it in the last month or so, before that it sat for most of 4 years, had 2004 tags on it when I bought it. I changed the oil and plug soon after I got it and I recall the plug was fouled and seemed to have some gas on it. The exhaust is after market, about a 22 inch fishtail. I have the OEM exhaust and have thought about putting it back on, but I am afraid I will introduce new issues with leaks etc. I hope to get it into the dealer for a carb cleaning next week; I have thought about trying that myself, with Clymers in hand, but since I have never heard one of these running "right" I am not sure I am ready to handle that either. I am not averse to wrenching on it myself, but manual dexterity is not my strong point, I tend to drop small pieces, often.
any advise?
what is a fair price to pay to have the carb cleaned?