Noob Q = Valve clearance check

[rdulina]

Hello all!

Been trollin a LONG time. I can finally post after the 6 month wait.. lol.. NEway..

Background: SP2, 14.5k miles now. Fair amount of mods. (Thanks CBR400!), and I have the manual.

My question: Is it advisable to replace the gasket under the valve cover when I go to check my valves?

I ask this because when I went to order them from my local Honda shop, they tell me that they are "re-usable". (Coming from a kid who is old enough to be my own)

This, for some reason, thru-up a flag in my head, and want the knowledge/experience of you guys.

Also, I would like the recomendation of sealent used for around "corners" of the gasket at the cams, if needed..

Thanks!

[DesperateSP2]

I confess having used mine gain after the last valve clearance check. 6000 miles later they haven't leaked a drop of oil... and it's almost time for another check!

[dstewart]

I have had mine off and on a half a dozen times or so, no leaks. No sealant necessary.

[Ika-kun]

You'll be surprised how good Honda OE stuff is. It shouldn't leak on you unless it's really buggered up.

[rdulina]

Thanks guys!

I haven't removed them yet, but will take extra care not to damage them for re-use.

[RVTMAVERICK]

Originally Posted by rdulina

Thanks guys!

I haven't removed them yet, but will take extra care not to damage them for re-use.

The REAR Valve cover, (plus Valve check\job) is a Piece of cake.. FYI... it is the FRONT valve cover, that's a "For Me" bit of a bitch... Frame Beams and Cam gear it's tight... Heads Up Nothing to too bad.. just a warning for said Valve cover gasket... <front>

[mspeedman]

if the o-ring has flat spots and won't easily fit back into place then replace it

[RIRC51]

Didn't replace or reseal mine, 5000+ miles later and no worries.

[RVTMAVERICK]

Originally Posted by mspeedman

if the o-ring has flat spots and won't easily fit back into place then replace it

What O-Ring speedman? Valve cover dosen't have O-rings..

[mspeedman]

Sorry, a little too general it isn't quit an oring , same applies with the rubber valve cov. gasket tho.....flat spots throw out, doesn't fit back properly, throw out

[sidewaysid]

I have to confess that while i was trying to get the front spark plug out using a very old box spanner and tommy bar...I punctured my rocker cover aghhhhh I had no choice it had to come off You have to remove the front fender at least, I also removed the r/h radiator and breathers..and a few other bits and pieces.

It cost me a rocker cover, but i must say the gasket was re-useable, you just need to check that you keep it in the groove and don't nip it or twist it, oh and watch out for dropping the rocker cover bolts or the 10mm socket, I lost my 10mm socket and I never found it (I think it went in the v between the cylinders) and probably shook out into fairing..and whoops away up the road ahah ah.

Good luck

[rdulina]

Completed the valve check, clearances good, put about 100 miles on with no leaks, good to go!

Thanks for all the help guys.

And Mav,

There is an o-ring in there for the cover , around the tube for the pair system? i think. mine looked good so i re-used it too.

Thanks again!