1972 1150 making strange noises from the top of the engine

[ptbrakefield]

The engine runs great... when I first got it, only when first started, there would be a brief whining/whirring from the top. However, it's getting worse and happening more often for longer periods. Enough that I shut it off and put it up yesterday. The sound changes... not steady, but changing in pitch from fairly low frequency to fairly high... nothing truly high pitched ever. You can hear it at the top of the motor when you put your ear close to it. I'm thinking belt/distributor/stator maybe, but wanted to get ideas from you experts first.

 

[racerone]

Check the flex plate on the flywheel for cracks.

 

[GA_Boater]

Another thing to check is the bearings in the the distributor.

Pop off the timing belt after setting the motor at TDC and turn the timing pulley feeling for rough spots and smooth turning.