replaced cylinder head

[Ry_Guy]

Here's a follow-up of when I replaced my cylinder head. It had been running low on power (low-end) but the valve clearances were in spec. Everytime I took off from a start, I had to rev the engine up to around 6-7K rpm just to engage it in first gear. Other than that, it ran fine and had plenty of power on the freeway. I suspected a bad valve itself to be the culprit, and I felt quite vindicated to find out that it was. In fact, there was a chunk of the right exhaust valve that was missing! It's hard to see it in this photo...I need to invest in a better camera.

The right exhaust valve was white

I bought a used cylinder head from The Buddha. He sent it to a machine shop and had them do a 3-angle valve cut. Installing it was somewhat labor intensive, but not too complicated. When all was said and done, I practically had new valves for less than 200 bucks   
Judging by the plugs, it appears to run a bit cooler now, and the power is back 

[5thAve]

 

[Ry_Guy]

Performance  Lousy video quality, but you get the idea...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dam3i0UD-w

[coll0412]

Ry_Guy, how did you make it to California?

Well enjoy the infinity better weather, and your now more powerfull GS.

[commuterdude]

Seems to be smoking quite a bit in the vid?

[Ry_Guy]

Seems to be smoking quite a bit in the vid?

Yea, it does that immediately after a wheelie, then clears up. A little oil starvation probably not good for the cylinders 

Ry_Guy, how did you make it to California?

Well enjoy the infinity better weather, and your now more powerfull GS.

The trip was awesome! I was able to load up everything I own in the back of the truck, including the GS. Definately don't miss those cold winters, and it sounds like I just escaped a brutal one. How's the track days going? Hit me up if you ever come out this way.