Top Ending KDX200

[Wayne Meuir]

I just bought a 2003 KDX 200 and will probably top end it in the near future since I have no history on the bike.
Question I have is: assuming it does not need to be bored, is the cylinder supposed to be honed to a cross hatch finish before new rings are installed. That is the normal procedure for re-ringing, but I don't know if the cylinder is plated on the inside. If it is not supposed to be honed, then what is the procedure for installing new rings?

Thanks, Wayne

 

[jaguar]

honing nikasil

yes it is best to do a real light brush hone on the plated cylinder to help the rings to seal.

 

[julien_d]

Negative. You are NOT suppose to hone a plated cylinder. Most use a scotchbrite pad to clean it up and nothing more. If the crosshatching is worn off it's time for it to be replated anyway.

 

[Wayne Meuir]

What type of plating does it have on it, and where can I get it replated?

Thanks, Wayne

 

[julien_d]

Kawasaki calls their method Nikisil. US chrome does plating. There are others too but I believe US Chrome is the most widely used.

 

[Wayne Meuir]

Thanks, I am familiar with Nikasil. I will contact US Chrome if I need to have it replated.

Wayne

 

[2strokerfun]

Negative. You are NOT suppose to hone a plated cylinder. Most use a scotchbrite pad to clean it up and nothing more. If the crosshatching is worn off it's time for it to be replated anyway.

You can safely hone a plated cylinder if done properly and many people do. Some people also use a scotchbrite type pad.