BassCliff GS850GT Top End Refresh

[azr]

When I've used gasket remover it was pretty useless in the fact that it wouldn't take anymore than the very top surface off, so I'd spray it let it sit and then scrap it off with the blade. When I get down to the final layer near the head it's like being a surgeon. I've done two that way with no issues but I do agree you have to be very careful and very patient. I stopped taking count of how long it took me, long enough that's for sure. I tried the wire wheel route but had no success, maybe next time I'll try your suggestions.

[GSXR7ED]

Good tutorial BassCliff. Thanks for sharing.


Ed

[Steve]

I'm actually reading the manual as I go but I'm sure I'll still have a few questions.

Don't forget to check BassCliff's "little website", he probably has something on there for you.


The best gasket scraper I have is an old 1/2" wood chisel. I keep it sharp, so it does not take much effort to get under the gasket and lift it up.
The key is to keep the tool flat to the work so there is no chance of gouging it.

.

[BassCliff]

Hi Steve,

Don't forget to check BassCliff's "little website", he probably has something on there for you.

The best gasket scraper I have is an old 1/2" wood chisel. I keep it sharp, so it does not take much effort to get under the gasket and lift it up.
The key is to keep the tool flat to the work so there is no chance of gouging it.

Ha! Thanks, Steve. I check out that guy's website and see if it's any good.

Thanks to everyone for all the gasket removal advice. It sounds like that's going to be the toughest, most time consuming part of this project. I really appreciate all your insight and experience.


Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff

[alke46]

Good tutorial BassCliff. Thanks for sharing.


Ed

+1 on that. Thanks very much for sharing. Good job so far.

[Big T]

Cliff

I recommend a thorough exam of the cam chain guides and possible replacement

They are 30 years old, you know

[jdknicks]

Basscliff,

Where did you get the hex screws for the circular cylinder head side covers? I just finished adjusting the valves on my 750 and had one heck of a time getting those off. I actually broke two bits on one screw.

Sorry to hijack and thanks!

[rustybronco]

(Do the marks above mean that the #1 piston is at the top of the compression stroke or exhaust stroke?)


Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff

Compression...

Dowels won't be an issue.

[Johno]

Watching this thread with keen interest! Thanks for posting.
What material are the oil catch pads made from Cliff?

Thanks Cliff for the great photos and detailed description.

I'm expecting to go down a similar track to replace carb inlet rubbers and O rings. This will be my reference.

[oldgsfan]

This is great, BC - I'm actually doing the exact same thing on my 850 but am a couple of steps behind you.

I'm really glad you're posting these pics!

[1074cm3]

Wow! very helpful as always. Thanks for the thread and those great pics.

[Nessism]

Best thing I've found to soften the base gasket is Permatex gasket remover spray. Shoot some in a cup, then dab it on with a small brush. Stuff takes about half a day to soften the gasket, and it will take several applications before you get all the gasket off.

Took my head and cylinder to a machine shop to get them surfaced, and the owner told me he gets lots of heads (auto) with damaged gasket surfaces after people take power tools to the things trying to remove gaskets. Says he's made a lot of money machining heads after someone took those 3M pads to them.

[Bass Man]

BC, great series of pics and dialog! Your Jesse Blue looks alot like my Ol' Blue 1981 GS850G, other than the round turn signals (mine are rectangular). Bought Ol' Blue in PHX new, back when I had money to spend...

[BassCliff]

Hi,

Thanks Cliff for the great photos and detailed description.

I'm expecting to go down a similar track to replace carb inlet rubbers and O rings. This will be my reference.

You might want to have a look at this "how to" guide (PDF file).

Air Intake Repair:
(Airbox removal, intake boots and O-ring replacement)

And this page by a real guru, Mr. bwringer:
Replace intake boot o-rings




Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff

[BassCliff]

Hi,

Compression...

Dowels won't be an issue.

Thank you! As I suspected. Thank you for the confirmation.



Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff