I just did the versy adjuster (the adjuster was about to fall out) and the starter limiter gear mods, so I've had both sides of the case open. I was able to move the shifter and kickstand stuff out of the way by pushing the engine bolts out about 3-4 inches and using an extension on the ratchet to get to the lower case bolts.  I do have a motorcyle lift so I can move the kickstand assembly.  

I'm hearing a slight high pitched something coming from the cam chain side of the motor at low RPMs, my imagination is it is the chain rattling on something. It disappears at higher RPMs.  I'm just thinking worst case scenario down the road if I screwed up the cam chain tensioner install somehow or the chain is going.  It is an '86 and I have no idea how many miles are on it, it was installed by the previous owner who blew up his 2005 motor.  It seems to run well now and the mechanic who did the head seal said the jug looked good when he had the head off.  The problem is, I have no point of reference for what are normal Savage noises.  I know thumpers are noisy beasts, but I don't know what is within the realm of normal noise levels.

stu-pidass question here...looking thru the motorcycle handyman photos it shows the TDC on the rotor and engine crankcase,is this on the left side of the motor? (clutch side,as I've had a couple of jacks and looking at the bike upside down)    




left side stator and timing port, right is clutch. - v1

No such thing as a stupid-arse question, just people who are too stupid to ask a question when they know they don't know the answer the screw stuff up.  At my age I'd rather learn from other people's expensive mistakes than get another PhD in stupid and have to take out more student loans to get it.

Hey Dave, Yeah the whirring noise sounds like a high pitched chain rattle to me. It happens on start up and when I tweak the throttle. It is most pronounced at low RPM/idle.  I pulled the side cover this afternoon to check my chain guides and inspect the chain and verslavy.  Everything looked OK. No metal filings in the oil or case, the verslavy shaft is out about 2- 3mm so I don't think the chain is too tight.  I adjusted the valves yesterday and there was oil in the upper parts.  So, I guess I'll ride it and just keep an ear open for something REALLY obnoxious.