What to do when under the valve cover?

[russperry]

I'm getting ready for the first valve check (~20k miles) and was wondering what other maintenance I should be preparing for once everything is opened up. I've got to ride about 20 miles to get to the dealer for the head cover gasket so wanted to get any other replacement parts in one shot.

thanks for any input

 

[Fred W]

Figure on changing the plugs (you'll already have them out to make it easier to turn the engine to the 4 TDC's), and if you think you'll ever want to get rid of the PAIR plumbing, this would be an opportune time.

I schedule all of my bike maintenances on the 5k marks. It makes it real easy for me to remember when it's due without consulting my records. Oil changes every 5k. Valve checks ever 5th oil change (on the 25k's), etc. So those 25k services and up being the ones where almost everything gets done at the same time. Ideally this would happen in the winter months when I have lots of time to do it, but it doesn't always work out that conveniently.

 

[RossKean]

I'm getting ready for the first valve check (~20k miles) and was wondering what other maintenance I should be preparing for once everything is opened up. I've got to ride about 20 miles to get to the dealer for the head cover gasket so wanted to get any other replacement parts in one shot.

thanks for any input

Chances are that you won't need to replace the gasket!

 

[RaYzerman19]

I'm getting ready for the first valve check (~20k miles) and was wondering what other maintenance I should be preparing for once everything is opened up. I've got to ride about 20 miles to get to the dealer for the head cover gasket so wanted to get any other replacement parts in one shot.

thanks for any input

Chances are that you won't need to replace the gasket!

Agree, with the plugs and PAIR system, and you shouldn't need the gasket.

 

[escapefjrtist]

Don't forget the two o-rings for the water tube and new coolant!

--G

 

[rbentnail]

And dielectric grease for the ground spiders! Perfect time to access the hard to reach ones.

I recommend picking up a new cover gasket even tho you prolly won't need it. I pinched the corner of mine last winter installing the cover and the pig puked oil so I had to wait until another was delivered. Also, if you have to order the gasket, have get a couple extra screws/rivets. Never hurts to have a few extras.

 

[SkooterG]

This is a fairly big job. Am wondering why you are doing it 7,000 miles early?

 

[Chuck35]

When I get around to doing mine I fancy one of those new fangled chain tensioners.