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This might be a dunb question, but...

Discussion in 'Hangout Lounge' started by fakeplay, Mar 1, 2012.

  1. fakeplay

    fakeplay Member

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    Is it required to get a new valve cover gasket every time I check my valve clerances ? Also, what are those rubbers that go on the bolts ? Replace ?
    It's gonna be my first time checking and I'm ner-ner-ner nerous.
    Thanks
     
  2. Bobbybonez

    Bobbybonez Member

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    If this is your first time checking your clearances it might be recommended that you replace the gasket. Especially if it hasn't been done in years. If it has been kept up to par and checked regularly there is a good chance you wont have to change it. Gaskets can last quite a while if you look after them when you check your clearances next time.
     
  3. bigfitz52

    bigfitz52 Well-Known Member Premium Member

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    Replace it the first time, along with the "donuts" that go on the bolts. Those "donuts" are what actually push the cover down against the gasket/head; the bolts themselves have stop collars to prevent overtightening.

    Once you replace the molded rubber gasket and donuts, they're good for at least two~three~four more removal replacement cycles before any special attention is required.

    Oh, and it's NOT a "dumb question" at all. The dumb questions are the ones nobody asks. I'm going to do a "mini how-to" on stretching the life of the (relatively new) gasket beyond what I mentioned above.
     
  4. fakeplay

    fakeplay Member

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    Thanks for the info. preciate it. Also are the "donuts " all the same size ?
    Thanks
     
  5. Rhettb3

    Rhettb3 Member

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    They should be... as long as the bolts are all the same diameter. Chacal, the guy with the link in the top right corner of this page, is great for parts like that. Rumor has it he ships via lightning bolts...
     
  6. bigfitz52

    bigfitz52 Well-Known Member Premium Member

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    The donuts are not all the same.

    The eight outer ones are different from the four inner ones.

    They're not just a rubber washer; they're a metal/rubber composite part.

    Here's a picture comparing new to old and illustrating both styles; it's from the valve adjustment how-to: http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=14827.html

    The larger ones are the inner ones.

    [​IMG]
     
  7. lostboy2

    lostboy2 Member

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    I would replace them all the first time and I can tell you I just finished my first valve adjustment on my bike. Print out Fitz's how-to before you get started both parts (1 & 2) and follow the steps. I was very nervous at first but after a couple of times checking them I thought to myself "why do people actually take their bikes to the shop to have this done?" Trust me, you can do this. It isn't hard at all. Make you a book to record all your numbers, like fitz's suggested and I had the how-to printed out with me for reference if I needed it. You will be fine and wonder the same thing after your first time also. Good luck and remember that if you do get in a pickle, we are only a post away to help.
     
  8. fakeplay

    fakeplay Member

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    Thanky.
     
  9. Rhettb3

    Rhettb3 Member

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    Glad someone came by to correct me.... :oops:
     

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