Saving a '81 KZ750-E

I managed to clear enough space to get to my cylinder head bench. Since the valve clearance will decrease as the valves wear into their new seats, I assume it would be better to be at the large end of the recommended clearance of .08 - 1.8 mm.

I think you recommended valve clearance of 0.08 - 0.18 mm :whistle: :whistle: :whistle:

I am saying it would be preferred to be closer to 1.8 mm than .08 mm for a rebuilt head/fresh valve job.

I'd target the higher end of the range.

Scirocco wrote: I think you recommended valve clearance of 0.08 - 0.18 mm :whistle: :whistle: :whistle:

I think Scirocco is saying dont confuse 0.18mm with 1.8mm.

I didn't notice I missed a decimal place... :S

I have the following valve clearance measurements:

Exhaust: 1) .18 2) .18 3) .15 4) .18
Intake: 1) .20 2) .18 3) .20 4) .18

#1 and #3 intake are one shim increment over the recommended valve clearance. Looks like I need two more shims, or I run with it knowing the clearance will come into range as the seats wear in. Only .02 mm above the top of the range.

the last time I need shims my local small Kawasaki dealer had them for me in a couple or 3 days. A two pack which didn't cost much. I tend to err on the side of caution.

Your bike is going to be awesome.

I went ahead and ordered the two addition shims I need. Thanks.

calum wrote: Loads of space!
I imagine you can hardly see the change to the swingarm from the side. Nice work.

It seems to blend better than I expected, for being asymetrical and all.

Tinkered on the bike for a while today, but it all seems to be "invisible" work. No real changes in appearance. I cut my chain to length, and riveted the master link on. Adjusted the chain tension and torqued the rear axle. Finished with all of the engine mount bolts - a couple had to be hand ground since the same size bolts I could only find with bigger hex heads. All of the motor mounts are torqued now. Filled and bled the rear brakes, and torqued the counter shaft sprocket nut. Sometimes you can tinker for hours and step back and say you got a lot done, but none of it shows!

Skidmark wrote: I have the following valve clearance measurements:

Exhaust: 1) .18 2) .18 3) .15 4) .18
Intake: 1) .20 2) .18 3) .20 4) .18

#1 and #3 intake are one shim increment over the recommended valve clearance. Looks like I need two more shims, or I run with it knowing the clearance will come into range as the seats wear in. Only .02 mm above the top of the range.

Sorry I wasn't around to reply sooner, if it was me I would run it with the measurements/shims you have installed and check it in 500 miles or so. A little loose isn't going to cause you any problems, I don't think that is even over spec. enough to cause any noise. I do have another $.85 for postage if you feel that you need a couple more shims.

Mike