GS 1000 crank

[jknappsax]

I bought a 1979 GS 1000 that, when the title arrived, said "NOT ACTUAL MILEAGE". It currently shows marginal compression in all cylinders, so I think it probably has a lot of miles on it. Can anyone here recommend a way to check on what shape the crank roller-bearings are in without splitting the cases?

[trippivot]

the roller bearings are the very last thing to worry about!!

1 word bulletproof

even if you run it on 1.5 qts of oil it's whole life

I'd worry more about the clutch basket and 2nd gear!!

[jknappsax]

It's one of the things I love about old GSes...

... the roller-bearing crank. I just don't want to do the bore, rings, oversize pistons, and then find out the crank bearings are going, but what you say makes perfect sense. Thanks!

[drhach]

Before you rush to rebuild this thing. Make sure everything is in spec. In other words adjust/measure the valves etc. Many of these bikes get neglected. Simple adjustment goes a long way. I'm not saying that it doesen't need a ring job, but other factors will give low compression readings. This is especially true for valves that are out of adjustment. You might be pleasantly surprised.

[jknappsax]

I hope you're right!

I'm fussing with valve shims now, just need to get a list of what I need. The valves were all tight, so I'm hoping you right be right. The engine has a lot of rough spots; the spark plug holes could be better on some cylinders, someone broke off one of the valve cover bolts, and the electrical harness is dodgy. I think this one was not taken care of very well.