520 SX valve clearance

[Anssi]

Hi,

I just got my '02 520 SX and have now been breaking it in for 54 minutes. The manual says I should check valve clearances after the first 3 hours of running.

However, the manual does not provide any instruction to accomplish the task. I am aware of the general procedure of checking/adjusting valve clearances, just thinking about the specifics.

So, I remove the valve covers (I haven't had the tank off yet). Will I need to mess with the radiators, or can I get the feeler gauge in there properly with them in place?

Any other special things that come to mind for those of you that are familiar with the RFS?

 

[ripin520]

I'm to lazy to cut and paste or even type right now so check out the link. I think you'll find everything you need and more.

http://www.holeshotforum.com/ubb/Forum8/HTML/000210.html

 

[Anssi]

Thanks for the link, it really had all the info I need.

 

[Wild Hare]

Anssi,

I talked to John Dowds Mech. at the US Open about this very topic. He advised you get "some time" on the bike to let everything seat. The feeling I got from him....If it's three hours of RACING that maybe enough, an the manual is going to be conservitive! If you are not racing you may want to wait a bit.... your call, but I went about 300 miles of mixed trail riding and little MX before I adjusted everything. If you adjust before the valves full seat, you'll need to do it again.... FWIW

 

[Anssi]

I adjusted the valves no problem (at least the bike runs and makes no weird noises :).

I fully intend to check them again after some real riding. They were a bit on the tight side.