GS550 Build Episode 2 - Checking Valve Clearances

In this second video, I recheck the compression and find out that it's better than I thought it was. I also check the valve clearances before moving on any further. Things are looking up!

[@rickconstant6106]

For anyone wanting to take out the valve shims on these, it can be easier to lever the tappet downward with a large, flat blade screwdriver, then insert the tool to hold it down while you change the shim (it's quite easy to make your own holding down tool from a piece of 1/4" gauge flat bar if you don't have the special tool)

[@carlvitale744]

Hi Mike, I have a gs550 that I bought in 2010 and have covered a lot of miles on .The cams on your bike look good, like the engine has not ever been hot . When the valve seats wear the cam clearance gets tighter, so closer to 8mm is better then close to 3mm.

[@MikeMitchum]

Thanks, Carl. Another one of my buddies pointed out the same to me after seeing this video. I appreciate the feedback. Keep it coming!

[@whiltoecardhonian3054]

Yeah it’s hard with that stupid metal arm. A fuckiing pain in the ass is an understatement. I’m going to wrap mine with masking tape on the bottom and hope it helps

[@ronsnell2262]

Mike, as I said on the previous video, great job. My recently purchased 1979 550E, has the CV carbs. They do not have the 4 hoses on the bottom of the float chambers. However, there are about 5 other hoses to deal with and I cannot find anything so far to tell me where these hoses go. Any thoughts will help a bunch.

[@MikeMitchum]

I just looked up those carbs and It looks to be 2 atmospheric pressure hoses, a fuel supply, and a vacuum (to petcock) hose. That's purely speculation based on the photos and the hoses that are on my carbs. I'm not familiar with the CV carbs on these bikes. I hope that helps as a starting point.

[@ronsnell2262]

@@MikeMitchum Thanks for the help!, Yes it helps a bunch. I picked up this GS550 and am restoring it. So much fun. Keep up the good work and the great vids.