02 Warrior smoky on startup

[delaswim]

I have a 2002 Warrior that smokes quite a bit on startup, but then calms down and is fine after it warms up. I’m wondering if that’s acceptable, or a potential problem down the road? Second issue - there’s a sound when I let off the throttle and it seems like it might be a bad bearing. I have no idea, but that’s my best guess. I think it’s coming from the motor.
I appreciate the support a forum provides and look forward to any responses.

 

[PineyPower]

Little smoke can either be from running super rich (it'll be richer on cold starts with the choke) or if it has a valve stem seal leak it'll smoke on start alot and a little when riding

 

[delaswim]

Thanks for your reply. When the rear shock comes back, I’ll have to take a closer look. The noise from the motor is most concerning.

 

[beastlywarrior228]

A lot of the times on the warrior is just the top end. Once you get a little heat put into them everything expands and seals up.