The 2001 Can-Am DS 650 is a powerful sport ATV known for its robust Rotax engine and off-road performance. It’s a favorite among desert racers and trail enthusiasts due to its durability and torque. However, like any machine, it can develop mechanical problems over time. One common concern owners report is a knocking noise coming from the right side near the stator area.
This knocking can range from a faint tapping to a loud mechanical clunk, and understanding its causes is essential to prevent severe damage.
The Role of the Stator in the DS 650
The stator is part of the ATV’s charging system, producing AC voltage to power electrical components and recharge the battery. In the DS 650, the stator sits on the right side of the engine, behind the stator cover. It is mounted on a backing plate and spins around a flywheel.
While the stator itself doesn’t create knocking noises, surrounding components can — and often the sound is mistaken for stator failure when it’s actually related to nearby moving parts.
Why Knocking Sounds Emerge on the Right Side
A knocking noise from the right side of a DS 650 engine can be caused by several issues:
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Loose flywheel bolts causing wobble
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Failing starter clutch within the flywheel assembly
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Worn crankshaft bearings
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Loose counterbalancer
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Chain slap from the timing chain
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Damaged or warped stator backing plate
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Foreign debris inside the stator cover
Because the stator area houses multiple rotating components, pinpointing the cause requires careful inspection.
Initial Inspection Checklist
Before tearing the engine apart, follow these steps to narrow down the problem:
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Listen closely – Use a mechanic’s stethoscope to isolate the noise.
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Check oil level and condition – Low or dirty oil can cause increased mechanical noise.
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Inspect for metal shavings – Drain the oil and check for signs of internal wear.
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Look for loose bolts – Especially around the stator cover and flywheel.
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Check starter clutch play – Excessive movement indicates wear.
Common Causes and Fixes
Loose Flywheel Bolts
If the flywheel bolts back out, they can strike the stator plate or case, causing a repetitive knock.
Fix: Remove the stator cover, torque bolts to factory spec with threadlocker.
Worn Starter Clutch
A worn starter clutch can make a rattling or knocking sound during idle and deceleration.
Fix: Replace starter clutch assembly; inspect flywheel teeth for damage.
Crankshaft Bearing Wear
Deep knocking at all RPMs may point to crank bearing failure.
Fix: Engine teardown and bearing replacement.
Counterbalancer Play
The DS 650 uses a counterbalancer to reduce vibration. If its bearings wear out, knocking will result.
Fix: Replace counterbalancer bearings.
Timing Chain Slap
A stretched timing chain can hit the case or guides, creating noise near the stator side.
Fix: Replace chain and inspect tensioner.
Damaged Stator Backing Plate
If the stator plate warps or cracks, it can rub against the flywheel.
Fix: Replace stator plate and verify proper alignment.
Step-by-Step Stator Side Disassembly
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Disconnect battery
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Drain engine oil
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Remove right-side plastics and skid plates for access
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Remove stator cover bolts
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Inspect inside cover for debris or contact marks
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Check flywheel and stator for damage or misalignment
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Reassemble with new gaskets and torque to spec
Preventative Maintenance for the Stator Area
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Change oil every 20–30 hours of riding
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Use quality oil to protect bearings
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Inspect stator area during seasonal maintenance
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Use threadlocker on critical bolts
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Keep electrical connectors clean and corrosion-free
When to Seek Professional Help
If knocking persists after tightening bolts and inspecting the starter clutch, internal engine work may be required. Crankshaft or counterbalancer repairs involve specialized tools and should be handled by experienced mechanics.
Cost Estimates for Repairs
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Flywheel bolt retorque: minimal cost if DIY
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Starter clutch replacement: $150–$250 parts + labor
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Crank bearing replacement: $600–$1000 with labor
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Full engine rebuild: $1200+
Owner Tips to Extend Engine Life
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Warm up engine before hard riding
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Avoid over-revving in low gears
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Store ATV in dry conditions to prevent corrosion
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Follow manufacturer’s service intervalsAlso read:
Also read: Basket Ball Stars GitHub – Open-Source Game Development Insights
FAQs
Is knocking on the right side always the stator?
No, it’s often a nearby component such as the flywheel, starter clutch, or crank bearing.
Can I ride with a knocking noise?
Not recommended; continued riding can cause catastrophic damage.
How can I confirm it’s the starter clutch?
Remove stator cover and inspect for play or damage in the starter clutch assembly.
What tools do I need to remove the stator?
Socket set, flywheel puller, torque wrench, and gasket scraper.
Does the DS 650 have known stator issues?
Electrical failures can occur, but knocking noises are usually mechanical, not electrical.
Conclusion
A 2001 Can-Am DS 650 knocking on the right side near the stator requires prompt diagnosis to avoid costly repairs. While the stator itself rarely causes mechanical knocking, nearby components like the flywheel, starter clutch, and crank bearings can be the culprits. By inspecting methodically, using proper tools, and addressing issues early, you can keep your DS 650 running smoothly and extend its life on the trails.
