Front cam chain guide out of place?

[Guest]

Did a valve clearance check on a 78 gs550e and I had to modify the gasket a bit to go around the front cam chain guide which appears to be out of place now that I think about it is this it's normal position?image.jpg

[gustovh]

You are correct it is out of place. There is a round button on both sides, top end of the guide. That slides into a slot in the head. Check the manual on install procedures.

V

[rlwebster91]

I looked over the manual and could not find anything specifically addressing installation of the cam chain guide, I'm assuming it won't just press down in there?

[earlfor]

I looked over the manual and could not find anything specifically addressing installation of the cam chain guide, I'm assuming it won't just press down in there?

If I remember correctly, and I am pretty sure I'm correct, the cam chain guide has to be installed before the cams are installed. Be certain you have the cam chain sprockets in the correct position and the end slots on both cams in the correct position and check and write down the cam chain pin count between the camshaft sprocket arrows before removing the cam chain tensioner and then the cam shafts. Put a tag on the cam shafts so you are certain which is exhaust and which is intake before removing them. You'll also need a new valve cover gasket and a tube of Threebond or Yamabond. Absolutely do NOT use silicone crap/RTV sealant.

[rlwebster91]

A few days ago I pulled the valve cover and it had lowered to the mating surface, what I don't understand is how it could have unseated from wherever its supposed to be. My grandfather purchased the bike in 1980 so I know they've never been removed/replaced, and the bike only has 11,000 miles on it. Unless 25 years of sitting in a garage can cause things like this to happen.