valve job information wanted

[devonh15]

Hey all, I am in the midst of a top end rebuild and I am replacing all the valves, I am wondering if there is any information or links involving seating new valves. I want to do the work myself but if it requires expensive specialty tools I may get it done at a shop. Any help and information would be happily received! Thanks

[Twisted]

Jesse (BaltimoreGS) should be able to help you with this. I'll bump this to the top of the page and hope he sees it.

[BaltimoreGS]

If your head is in good shape you will just need to lap the valves.  For that you just need a lapping tool (pretty much a suction cup on a stick) and some valve grinding compound.  There should be plenty of videos on youtube, same principles from automobile engine applies.  Hold the head up to light and look through the intake and exhaust ports, if you see light coming through; the valve is not sealing.  If the valve seat in the head is worn you will either have to have a machine shop re-grind the seat or replace the head.  Is there a reason you are replacing all the valves??  If the old ones were sealing good there is no reason to replace them.  In fact, the old valves will be worn to he head and may seal better than the new ones.

-Jessie

[devonh15]

I am rebuilding the top end, roughly 50,000 km on the engine. one of the exhaust valves was extremely white, overheated I assume so I want to replace it and figured I may as well replace all the valves while i have it apart. Is there really no reason to do this? I have inspected the head for heat damage( warping or cracks) and it is in good shape. I have bought the new valves already, but if you suggest there is really no reason to replace the old ones that don't show any signs of damage a could just keep them for spare parts in case future problems arise. I have also been reading about 3 angle valve jobs, I am looking to have a long lasting top end once Im done the rebuild. Would this help or does it really only increase power through improved flow and sealing. I do have a build thread started called 97 gs500 New Life project, it has a pic of the head with the white valve. Thanks For your help!  I am mechanically inclined, just lack experience, This bike is a learning project!