You are here:

Motorcycle Repair/honda xr 80 head tension

Advertisement


Question
could you tell me the head tension on a 1983 xr80,4large studs, one small also the valve clearances

Answer
David, measure the bolt size (not head size) and use the chart shown here:

http://dodgeram.org/tech/specs/bolts/M_bolts.html

small 6mm bolts/studs need about 5 ft lbs.
larger 8mm nuts should get about 14 ft lbs.

Valve clearances are .002" COLD on both intake and exhaust valves. Set them when the piston is at the T mark on flywheel and when the camshaft lobes are DOWN, so valves are closed. If you set the valve clearances when the cam is on "overlap" (both valves slightly open), then when you turn it one more turn to check the valve clearances will be VERY LOOSE.

I hope you know to install the camshaft/sprocket properly when the piston is at the top!

Bill Silver

Motorcycle Repair

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


Bill Silver

Expertise

Need help with vintage Hondas from the 1960s? I am an expert with 250-305cc bikes in particular and most all of the other pre-91 models, in general. I do NOT claim to have a great deal of experience on Gold Wings, Cruisers, ATC/ATVs and dirt bikes.

Experience

I have owned/ridden/maintained Honda motorcycles for 35 years. I have written five books on Honda repairs and collecting. I was a service manager for two Honda shops back in the 1980s.

Organizations
VJMC (Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club) of North America

Publications
VJMC newsletter, as editor for two years and as contributing editor currently.

Education/Credentials
3 years auto shop in high school, teacher's aide in Automotive Technology in Jr. College, Diesel mechanic course in college, self-taught mechanic and automotive writer.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.