Ring job etc...on an 81 550L

[MN_Albert]

Hey gang! wanted to introduce myself...I just joined the forum. I live in MN and have an 81 550L with 17,000 miles.

My question is: A ring job was done last summer because the previous owner ran it low on oil....even with a dummy light...Anyway, 1500 miles after the ring job, and cyl hone she is still using a little oil. maybe a cup every 1000 miles. do you think the rings are still seating? The powerband has absolutely no spikes or flat spots...it pulls evenly and consistantly through the entire powerband. idlea at 1000, and with my 190LB burden, she happily cruises at 65mph/6000rpm with the throttle opened about 1/3rd with PLENTY of pull left. I bet she would gove me 100mph if I had the nuts to try it!
Also, she gives about 50mpg..is that about right for mostly freeway?

Albert

[flyingace]

That is minimal oil usage. I would not worry about it. The oil may be seeping down via old valve stem seals rather around the rings.

[MN_Albert]

valve stem seals...hmmmm

Thanks!!
are valve stem seals fairly eay to replace? I am very mechanically inclined...

[flyingace]

I plan to do it myself this winter - my bike is using almost a quart/1000.

You'll need to remove the head and pull the valves. The seals themselves are inexpensive. I've heard it can be difficult to remove the old ones, but since I've never done this before, I don't really know.

If anyone out there has renewed GS valve stem seals, please chime in and let us know how to ease our pain.

Thanks.

PS - A post like this is better placed in the 'Technical Info' threads. You get more viewers there.

[Jethro]

If anyone out there has renewed GS valve stem seals, please chime in and let us know how to ease our pain.

.

Valve stem seals are pretty easy, just time consuming. Did it on my 1100E a few years ago. Pulling and re-installing the valves is the only real PITA, but you'll get good at it after 4 or 5 of them! If the guides are worn however, that is a pretty costly job, especially if you have a 4 valve head.