Today, a few faltering steps forward and one step back. For example, it was a definite step forward to discover the over-long cam chain. It's a DID chain so have ordered a DID rivet link. Trying to avoid buying an expensive splitter/rivet tool so looking at methods used on this forum
Pete, I don't think I'll check the ring gap. In line with my 'policy' just to rebuild from where I am, decided not to lift the barrels. This time.
Checked the head with a metal ruler and it's not fully flat. Able to push a 0.002" feeler under the ruler near the cam chain tunnel. Thinking about using a flat sheet of glass and wet or dry paper or valve paste to grind it flat.
5twins, I had the idea of checking the valve sealing and the method I came up with was to stand the cylinder head on end and pour petrol into first the inlet and then the exhaust ports. Good news on both inlets and the l/h exhaust - no petrol leaking past the valves. However, on the r/h exhaust, by the time I looked, petrol flowing down inside the combustion chamber. Either the valve is seating badly or bent.
Next idea was to remove the valves - all of them, no point just taking one out. Got my ancient spring compressor:
View attachment 145217
As you might see, it's fairly huge and awkward to use. But has proved able to do the job in the past. Started of course with the r/h exhaust. Ran out of adjustment on the threaded part so, to get it to close far enough, had to put a large 'penny washer' on the valve face, held in place with a blob of grease. Perhaps that end was taking too much of my attention. Sounds like an excuse? No, the blame is all mine. Tool not suitable as I should have realised
before it started taking chunks out of the head:
View attachment 145218
Ouch! I really hate inflicting damage. Almost enough to make a grown man swear.
Can't be helped now, just have to try and tidy up when I eventually have the valves out.
Have ordered a smaller spring compressor, with a long attachment to go over the spring washer so it should be well clear of the head. Also some of the parts I'll need for the rebuild. Including 4 x Suzuki copper washers for the outer head bolts.
There will be a haitus now until the new spring compressor arrives. Might be able to do some refurbishment on nuts and bolts, etc. And grind the cylinder head face.
Is anybody actually interested in any of this? I owe a big thank you to all of you who have read about my travails and posted helpful replies. Cheers, Raymond