04-13-2016, 01:14 AM
I ordered the cam chain holder tool and a spare tensioner bolt and washer. Yes, the tool was about $90 but from what I am reading, it's going to be worth it. It is tiny, tiny little thing, brass and steel. Obviously made to fit into that tight spot betwixt the cylinders and airbox. I'll be starting the job today. If they don't need adjusting, fine, but if they do, well, I'll just get it done. Only issue is getting the shims but I'll track down a source before I start pulling the cams out.
There again, it's a risk but if worst-case, maybe $1500 to pull the head and repair, so it's not the end of the world for a guy with a few bikes in the garage and the dough to self-insure.
For the owners who have the CB as the only ride or don't have the cost of head repair ready at hand, doing the check would be advisable. These are machines, they do wear out.
(07-15-2015, 11:57 PM)EGAlvarez_imp Wrote: I am happy to read what I have suspected for years; that low stressed Honda engines with shim under bucket valves rarely need adjustment. The lack of hydraulic valves has been my biggest complaint regarding the CB. From everything I have read, I will wait to check them when I change the oil at 15K.There have been a number of bikes with out of spec valves at the 8000 miles check. Something to keep in mind. Risking a burned valve, I won't do it. It's a few hours work for me, or a couple of days hassle getting the bike to a dealer and home again. I think if a guy went to 10K, no problems, but beyond that, if there is a tight valve, it's not get to let that go.
There is definitely something good to be said about being able to change the motor oil, adjust the valves, clean up mess, wash my hands and enjoy a cold beer in less than 90 minutes on my R1200GS.
There again, it's a risk but if worst-case, maybe $1500 to pull the head and repair, so it's not the end of the world for a guy with a few bikes in the garage and the dough to self-insure.
For the owners who have the CB as the only ride or don't have the cost of head repair ready at hand, doing the check would be advisable. These are machines, they do wear out.