Cylinder head refurbishment

[Therealkingjmz]

Hello guys,

I own a 1994 BMW R100R "Mystic" edition. I bought it about 4 years ago and I absolutely love the bike. However, it does have 97,000 miles on it, and to my knowledge (other than the stuff I've had done; timing chain and tensioners), the engine internals or bearings or valves have never been replaced. Meaning it's still running the same valves, guides, seals, etc. that were installed 97k miles ago. I've been looking into getting my heads refurbished, just for peace of mind, but the cost of the valves themselves are incredibly high here (128 USD each for exhaust, about 90 USD each for intake). Does anyone know of anywhere that sells a decent-quality aftermarket set of valves for less than that? I've been talking to George at Beemers Uber Alles in Manassas, VA, and he said that he'd look into it, but I figured I would do some research of my own.

This bike has always been taken care of, has been ridden carefully its entire life, and I have a stack of maintenance records about 2 inches thick. Should I even worry about this now? My worst fear is having a valve "let go" and punch a hole in my piston. That would basically be a tragedy.

Thanks for any and all input!

-James

[PAS]

I would contact Ted Porter. He has used all types of valves and guides and would know what works best!

https://www.beemershop.com/

[Kurt in S.A.]

I think once you got past the 1984 models, issues with valves and valve seats became a smaller problem. Sure, there can still be problems over time, but not like the '81-84 models. Peace of mind is certainly worth it...I had 100K on my /7 heads and just couldn't feel good about continuing to run them. I was checking valve clearances along the way but despite no real changes, I felt it was time to do it. Mainly, I was facing a possible trip to Salem, OR, for the National and going across the SW part of the county in July just forced me to make the change. I did have Ted Porter do my heads.

In your case, I would be vigilant about monitoring the valve clearances and watching the other indicators of performance - oil usage, gas mileage, etc. Then, when the performance began to suffer, make the decision.

Kurt

[Duane Ausherman]

I would have them rebuilt, just to be safe. The cost of a broken valve, or a dropped seat is just too much of a risk. Besides, you will certainly have quite worn guides by this time.

[Therealkingjmz]

Glad you guys seem to agree with me. The bike still runs great, but my valves are getting a bit clicky for me. The bike smokes a little bit on start-up, but only if its been sitting longer than a week or so. Kurt, if you don't mind my asking, how much did Ted Porter charge to do your heads? I'll probably go with my guy, but i'm trying to price things out either way.

Thanks,

James

[Kurt in S.A.]

It was three years ago and the bill was a little under $700. That was for 4 valves, 2 exhaust seats (intakes were fine), guides, and new springs (the old ones were sacked)...and labor of course which ran about 50% of the bill. With shipping, it pushed it over $700.

Ted uses good stuff. I noted that the seats were the "Welltite" product.

Kurt

[Therealkingjmz]

That would definitely be within my budget. I may end up calling ted porter's shop to ask what kind of valves they use, then ordering the parts from them and having my guy do the machining and everything locally. Again depending on what kind of quote George gives me at BUA, I may still have to ship them to ted porter's shop. Thanks again!

-James

[Therealkingjmz]

Has anyone had any experience with Bombar's Beemers in Durham, NC? Their work looks fantastic, and it looks like a pretty professional shop.

[Therealkingjmz]

Just spoke with Ted Porter on the phone. Had a great conversation, and I'll be giving him my business once some money comes my way.

Thanks guys!

[Kurt in S.A.]

You should be happy when all is said and done!

Kurt in S.A.