1980 GS100G Upper End needs rebuilt, Need Mechanic

[Chris48062]

I have a 1980 GS 1000G, it runs ok but I can tell it needs the upper end rebuilt, I would like to find a reliable mechanic in the south east Michigan area. If you know anyone please let me know. Thanks, Chris

[tkent02]

If it runs OK, why the rebuild?

[Nessism]

Head gasket is leaking it looks like. Maybe Chuck or Dale know someone?

[Chris48062]

The Head gasket is on to do list this winter or spring. Its just that it seems that it should have more power than it does. I have been trough the carbs, also blows a little smoke when cold and can hear a little slapping coming from the top of the motor. Will a loose upper end cause significant power loss?

[DanTheMan]

The Head gasket is on to do list this winter or spring. Its just that it seems that it should have more power than it does. I have been trough the carbs, also blows a little smoke when cold and can hear a little slapping coming from the top of the motor. Will a loose upper end cause significant power loss?

A little smoke when cold is most likely worn valve guide seals. Not a real big deal. A little noise in the top end? Valve lash adjustment.

"I have been trough the carbs"

Did you do a complete teardown, soak, rebuild and adjustment, synchro on the the carbs? What do you mean by "been through the carbs"? Are your airbox and intake boots in good shape? Wiring in good shape? Good spark plugs? Have you done a compression test?
If your head gasket is leaking that can cause power loss due to loss of compression in that area. When the head is removed for replacement of the head gasket I'd make sure it's all good before putting the engine back together, but I wouldn't just do a top end overhaul until all my bases have been covered,

[tkent02]

Probably not much. Check the compression yet? The little smoke when it's cold is likely valve stem seals, pretty easy to fix if you have the head off to fix the gasket.

[Chris48062]

"Did you do a complete teardown, soak, rebuild and adjustment, synchro on the the carbs?"

Yes I have done all that, I think I will start with the gasket and valve guides, then go from there. Your right i don't want to rebuild the upper end unless its absolutely necessary. Thank you for all your advice ! Is there a good online resource for parts?

[850 Combat]

I'm not sure if I would do the head gasket without doing the base gasket under the cylinder block. along with it. I'm planning on doing this job on one of mine, and frankly, I'm not looking forward to it.

At least you can do it without pulling the motor out of the frame.

Not a bad looking old ride, by the way.

[BassCliff]

Greetings and Salutations!!

Hi Mr. Chris48062

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Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff

[Graham]

I have a 1980 GS 1000G, it runs ok but I can tell it needs the upper end rebuilt, I would like to find a reliable mechanic in the south east Michigan area. If you know anyone please let me know. Thanks, Chris

If your going to have the head gasket done you should go ahead and do the hole top end. If you don’t mind pulling your motor and shipping it, I’ll do it at my bike shop the right way. No short-cuts, no used parts, and no bull-crap. $65 hour.
http://www.panhandlepowersports.com/

[rustybronco]

Zip code 48062? Richmond Mich... I drive through it every day.

I don't know anyone that I would recommend right off hand because I've always done my own work. possibly warren Honda-Suzuki? I know Chuck has had work done by them in the past.

my plates full for the foreseeable future, but are you willing to do the work yourself? do you have a place to work on it? I might be able to lend a hand and get you going in the right direction if needed.

[daniels]

I know a good mechanic in Allen Park. That might be too far though.

[chuck hahn]

try calling STEVE TYNER..he was down b y Metro airport last i knew..top notch guy on all kinds of bikes..jack of all trtades kinda guy. 734 368 5106