02-11-12, 08:21 AM
IMO checking the clearances @ the recommended intervals is a worthwhile exercise since as others have said the results of running clearances too tight can have expensive & entertaining effects! :'( :eek . Although new engines are more or less "built by robots" there is a specified RANGE of clearance that is acceptable-this allows for small differences in rates of expansion due to heat,chemical composition of metals involved,etc.etc. If measured clearances found to be near or at minimum acceptable limit then extra work is needed to replace shims on valves concerned. Haynes explains the procedure clearly including the shim thickness calculation.
Similarly cam chains have a finite life & eventually need replacing-I would do it on a high mileage bike simply for peace of mind-imagine the consequences of the chain giving up the ghost when giving it some stick -bye bye engine! :eek Its like the cage drivers who "forget" to change the cambelt @ recommended mileage & blow their motors up when thepistons start kissing the valves.
Prevention better than cure? :lol
Similarly cam chains have a finite life & eventually need replacing-I would do it on a high mileage bike simply for peace of mind-imagine the consequences of the chain giving up the ghost when giving it some stick -bye bye engine! :eek Its like the cage drivers who "forget" to change the cambelt @ recommended mileage & blow their motors up when thepistons start kissing the valves.
Prevention better than cure? :lol