Connecting rod to crank play

[Theycallmecrash]

Ok so my friend Seajay (forum name and real name) had a lot of rattling in her 2003 xb9r, **** ton of valve train noise. So i pulle it apart foynd rocker arms to have a good amount of side play, shimed them up made it tight, assembled for a test and the majority of the rattle was gone, except down low there was still something. Pulled apart i found the front connecting rod that is in the middle of the rear rod at the crank has a good amount of slop.... What to do?

 

[epion420]

Rebuild the motor bottom end and might as well do a valve job while apart I got wiseco gaskets which where a little thinner a super small increase in compression intake seals might as well do the clutch... Hmm a lot of money come to think about it

 

[thrstrmech]

complete engine gasket kit P/N: 17058-02D...$117.01@ newcastlehd.com

 

[Theycallmecrash]

Why do the clutch? Ive rebuilt my own 08 12R my flywheel assembly was solid couldnt even get 0.001" side play. Seajays is obviously tanked, i can replace eventhing im just curious if the appropriate route is to rebuild the crank via darkhorse or another, buy a new harley assembly, crank bearings? (40k miles) throw ot away, reassble and sell, buy used engine? Just wanna hear what you guys would do with an 03 xb9, and a small pocket book