I'm Finally installing my Fredette Ported Cylinder and

[Molly's 70]

While checking the bottom crank bearing for slop. I notice a dry, kinda sqeeking sound when the crank is turning. It's not coming from the crank seals. Maybe the water pump seal? I've never heard this from other 2 strokes I have rebuilt.
I did not notice this sound when I changed piston & rings a few years ago.

Anyone have an idea?

Bike was running perfectly before I took off the top end.
Water pump seal is original. What else could it be?

2003 KDX 220R.

[kdxdazz]

As you say waterpump seal makes sense, you could take off the waterpump cover and spray some lube on it to see if it helps

[SS109]

My guess would be the waterpump seal as well.

[Molly's 70]

Thanks, I have never heard it before.

[Molly's 70]

Ok, I finally got everything buttoned up. Life

That Fredette ported cylinder made this bike what it should be. RB head. FMF with stock muffler. V Force reeds. It's quiet & runs better than it ever has.
I'm at a 38 pilot & 152 main. RB carb. I could go leaner on both, but I am staying here for now. Plug looks real good.
Thanks FRP racing.

[KDXGarage]

THANKS for the report!

[SS109]

Glad to hear it meets expectations.

[Molly's 70]

I've put just over 20 miles on the new top end. Pulled the plug, looks better than I thought it would. Great color, a little dark.
I will drop 1 needle position. I'm running VP VPR w/ Amsoil 50:1.

https://vpracingfuels.com/product/vpr/?c=500

[SS109]

One of these days I might have to try getting my cylinder ported. I've done everything else so why not?

[KDXGarage]

Man. They have jacked the prices on VP through the roof. I used to run U4.4 when racing MX. It was only $75 around 2015. $125 MSRP now, crazy.

[Tyl3r]

Glad to hear you like it! I did the same cylinder and head mods and also love them. I feel like it makes the bike better everywhere with no downsides anywhere. Definitely what the bike should have been.