This man is an engineering genius. So laid back and matter of fact about what he does. I could listen to him all day. He's the Bob Ross of the bike world.
@@randersson3672 You're not wrong. I've watched the Missenden Flyer interviewing him and he just amazes me. No plans, apart from in his head, no drawings, nothing. He just 'sees it working' and builds what he sees in his head. The man is incredible.
I can’t get over how AM takes a saw to two perfectly good engines and makes engineering porn. No disrespect to Kawasaki engineers but why did they not extend their wonderful fours into even more wonderful six bangers.
I am a mechanical engineer by trade having started my apprenticeship in 1969 with Vickers Armstrong. I have been a biker since I was 14 and loved motorcycle engines since then. You are a true reflection of our great heritage of invention. Long may you inspire us. Dave
There are morons in all walks of life or they have fat fingers and pressed the wrong one. I dislike Milly the way he uses a hand hacksaw, he makes me look pathetic 😂😂😂
As a former motorcycle mechanic and motorcycle workshop owner, I loved watching this video of a Master Engineer at work on one of Honda's most popular engines. That copper gasket was a work of art!
Mind you, Allen's XL engine has a VFR750 piston, an oversized liner & Kawasaki rings, so I imagine Michelangelo's door frames were a bit special as well...
The most used equipment in an engine builders arsenal...A BBQ and Swiss army knife..Who knew ?...Love your work Allen.. Honest, no nonsense, Pure engineering.
His Masters Voice Well, HMV, don’t keep us all in suspense. If you know better than Allen, give us the benefit of your superior knowledge, rather than just trying a put-down. Treatment of magnesium is not an easy process, but it needs some kind of protection. Les
Mine was but not with his aircraft background. He got me into fixing/ rebuilding cars and to this day I go to yard to get used parts either cheaper or that are no longer made.
I rarely comment on any video, but these are superb. Having seen many of your wonderful bikes over the years, I imagined you worked in a state of the art workshop. It's great to see good use of the BBQ and utility room sink. I'm always getting told off for such things.
This was the first of Allen's vids I ever watched and I was quite impressed he knew how to pull apart and repair one of these little engines. Certainly was in for a shock when I checked his other vids.
Allen does it again, but this time he triggers some old and fond memories as I bought a brand new Honda XL175 in 1977 it cost $729 AUD. It was my first motorcycle. The very first motorcycle I rode was a Honda QA50 in 1971. Honda and I go back that far. Also after watching a few of Allen's videos he has awakened a urge to make my own gaskets. The the two best tips I have learnt from these videos are to make my own gaskets and change the original screws to socket head screws. Yes, I had to buy an impact driver to remove the over 50 year old seized screws. The worst screw holding the two case halves together took over an hour of beating to remove. Once again I thank Allen Millyard for his informative videos and reigniting my passion for motorcycles.
45 years of rebuilding engines as a hobby always with access to a lathe and mill never did i think of swapping around piston rings or holding in gudgen pins with buttons not clips. Strange how now and again the penny drops when you watch a complete expert at work. Just like for 30 years to me wheel building was a black art until you see it on You Tube now I rebuild wheels. Thank you Mr Millyard engine rebuilding that contains engineering gold dust....subscribed.
You are an inspiration. I was in the carport making a clutch cover gasket and realized I’d forgotten the scissors but, in a flash, I thought of you and pulled my Swiss Army Knife out et voilá. Thanks for saving me a delay.
Hi Allen, I machined the ring grooves on a big bore KTM piston on my Harrison lathe, nearly killed myself, guess who left the gudgeon pin in the piston which promptly flew out at speed when I started the spindle and parted my hair! An inch or two lower and I'm certain I would have killed me. I'm a tool maker with 44 years experience with my own shop, just goes to show you can get your guard down every now and then! 😁 good videos, keep em coming.
@@nearsightedfromthefarside6534 I did my fitter and turner apprenticeship in HM Dockyard, Portsmouth in the early 50's. Our lathe instructor was very good. He impressed upon us the importance of always removing the chuck key unless we were going to use it. Penalty for leaving it in, if he saw it, was we had to to hand hacksaw a 6" steel square block with a 12" blade - which took forever - and the time allocated for your test job was still ticking while you did it!
From Japan I have been riding the XL250K3 for 43years. Unfortunately, I gave it up now, but it was a very fun bike even without power. Watching your video reminded me of my bike. Thank you for the wonderful video.
At 2.53 I felt aligned and in harmony with the Great Mr AM as I too have an orange B&Q bucket in my workshop. Made my day Please keep these videos coming.
What a fortuitous video - I have recently been given a 1976 Honda XL 175 ( in rather rough condition), and have learned more in 13 minutes than in several hours of internet research! Many thanks!
I have been rebuilding and modifying bike engines for many years and although I knew of you, had no idea of your expertise given your, forgive me saying, rudimentary equipment comparable to my own and low profile in 'my world'. As I spent very little time online prior to today's strange times I might never have spent the time watching all your videos. If this enforced lock down has shown me one thing, I have a lot to learn but unfortunately not enough time to get to your level. Respect and I sincerely hope this damn virus does not affect you and your loved ones.......it would be too great a loss. Kindest Regards and Best wishes, Paul.
@@hondaxl250k0 So true, lost a good friend with a blood clot from the oxford vaccine and he had zero health issues before. Don't know about control, incompetence and over reaction driven by personal avarice more likely.
I feel like I have just watched a genius at work. Effortless engineering skills. The position was a bit sloppy. So Allen has a rummage through his scrap box pulls out a Z Thos piston, takes the rings off and machines the piston to fit. Like it was nothing. I was just in awe throughout this video. It times gone by guys like Allen invented the telephone, electricity and the bouncing bomb from Dambusters. Just knocked up in his shed. I am now a super fan. Incredible
A friend introduced me to your channel knowing I spend hours watching these type of vids after a 2-10 shift. You sir are an absolute genius and by far the best you tuber out there I’ve got to remind myself to breathe while watching on times you have me mesmerised, Thank you 👍
Hi Alan. Please keep making these videos, they’re brilliant. You have a very calming voice, and your skill and knowledge is as vast as the outback. Respect from Western Australia.
Is it now like a Suzuki TSCC, twin swirl combustion chamber, after all , it's got a four valve piston un a two valve head Lol. Absolutely brilliant watching. Love the matter of fact attitude. Oh it was a big bore I had done, changed the vfr piston for a z1 piston, then altered the ring gap. Tommy Cooper !!!! Just like that !!! Allan, you are The Man. Thanks for sharing.
god, this video took me back. back in 83, i had an SL125 which always over heated. i stripped that bloody thing down a dozen times but never could figure it out, so i just lived with it. wish i still had it now. any way, great channel
I was involved with Honda machines from about 1962 onward and served as a mechanic and service manager for 15 or so years. One of my favorites was the CB 160 which I owned as my own commuter bikes. I'd be interested in videos you might cover rebuilding the crankshafts of older small Japanese twins as it takes specialized tooling to be made and finding suitable spare bearings and crankpins. May not be much of a demand for it but these older engines were the bedrock of Honda design back in the day and were very sturdy and dependable.
Excellent! My mate had a dad like that…he was great! What a great oil filter! Love that Allan nearly always have his equivalent of the WW2 marine’s “Garand thumb”!
beautiful job,i wish there was more like this on telly ,rather than all the bull____ that we get fed....programmes for car enthusiasts?? i think not...keep doing what your doing - great!!!
Yeah, he put a piston with 4 valve relief cuts in a 2 valve engine. WTF? I pity that poor combustion chamber... Back in my misspent youth when I raced an XL-175 I replaced the piston with one from a CB-350. Higher compression!
The XL175 was my first road bike! Allen, you are a true gem. In this world of ‘if it breaks, chuck it out and get a new one’, you show that with skill and attention to detail, one can keep these engines alive! Curiously, my current bike is a Kawasaki GTR1000! Love your work, and your vids.
Thanks Allen, lovely, gentle, reassuring viewing in these troubled times. And nice to see you doing a simple little job that we mere mortals can relate to. Keep em coming.
I suspect most people might go in for The Flying Millyard video or motorcycle/Viper video. They are great! But, I love posts like this one. They have an almost hypnotic quality. Allen's presentation is so calm and enjoyable!
Hi Allen. I have been watching for some time now. And I love your shows. The skills you have are a joy to watch. My uncle was 11 years older than me I was born 73.and whe I wa 6 and older. I was in awe of my uncles bike collections over the years. I took it for granted what environment I was in. But I loved it. I know now that I had a great childhood around yamaha and Honda bikes. And your shows remind me so much of those days. F'kin class in a glass. Thanks for sharing.
I got mine around 1980 with low miles, but same thing, it required no maintenance. I might have adjusted the tappets just for fun, because I like to do that sort of thing.
Fantastic, a real eye opener. Can't wait to see the one on head gasket making. Could you also show us some more machining: Cutting piston ring grooves, boring out cylinders, fitting new valve guides and seats? Is it also possible to regrind bearing and cam surfaces, and do nitriding on the BBQ? If anyone knows it would be you!
I am a qualified time served (70's)mechanical engineer and biker since then and Allen is without doubt my most admired engineer and bike builder of all time
Back around 1964 my friend had a BSA Super Road Rocket, we were doing an engine overhaul when a more knowledgeable mate and his friend came along as we were putting the cylinders on. This guy suggested we cover the opening with cloth where the camshaft was to stop bits falling inside, great idea. We completed the reassembly and push started the bike, it soon started to billow out smoke. Then someone said, "did we take out the rag?" We all looked at each other, OH shit!!! We took the thing apart to fine the tattered remains of the rage still in the opening. I can't remember how we cleaned it all out but we did get it going again. We had many disasters in our bike maintenance. It was fun time riding and fixing the bikes with very little knowledge. We really needed someone with experience to guide and help us and a proper place to work.
I could watch this guy ALL DAY ! He's not only knowledgeable, he's innovative. His video of marrying two four cylunder heads to make a six clynder head was Amazing !
The XL always bemused me. Some parts are like a competition engine (mag covers, high comp, cam directly in head, big valves and relatively lots of revs) but then others are full on endurance designs - air cooling, nut and bolt tappet adjusters, points over cdi, oil spinner, etc). Its almost like they were making two bikes at once.
To an ageing non mechanically minded petrol head this was immensely satisfying to watch. Thank you it helps a lot to have it explained the way you have. 👍🏼🏍
Thanks Allen, really enjoyed this vid. It was encouraging and vids like this inspire me to set out on my first motorcycle project. Keep vids like this up!
"Dad, is there any chance you can machine a Suzuki piston to take Kawasaki rings to fit in my Honda, please?" "No problem son! Put the kettle on, and I'll do it while you make a brew!"
Why am I not surprised that Mr. Millyard uses the scissors on his swiss army knife to make his own gaskets? Of course that's what he uses, because he is making his own gaskets!
@@AllenMillyard Same here although I've also found some superb surgery scissors that do a lovely job as well. I've found the most useful Swiss Army knife to be the Explorer. It is one of only 2 or 3 models (one other is the Golfer) that has the Phillips driver out the end instead of it projecting at right angles, much more useful. It has the loupe as well which is excellent for crack detection. Tell you what though, I've not found better than Three Bond (Hondabond, Yamabond) engine sealant, and I've tried every gorilla snot there is or has been. I'll knock apart an untouched 50 year old Japper and the Three Bond inside the engine that squeezed in during initial assembly has never come adrift, swelled, or became brittle. It is in my humble opinion the best case sealant that is made. In fact, I rarely replace gaskets, I simply remove the part, ignore torn gaskets, apply Three Bond, and bung it back together. They never leak, never.
I think if Allen Millyard were shipwrecked on Gilligan’s Island he could’ve built himself a workshop and not just a boat to escape , but it probably would be a V16 he built from scratch. He is a proper fabricater
Reminds me of the Motor Cycle Mechanics Magazine of the sixties that used to have a step by step photo assembly of the bikes of the era for young engineers like us. By the way, copper gaskets do not need to be quenched to anneal them, just bring them up to dull red hot, and let them cool naturally. The quenching process applies only to ferrous materials. Great upload .
Fantastic videos! I learned motorcy mechanics on similar engines as these. I'm nowhere near the level of skill of this gentleman. The first engine I took apart and never got going again was a non running BSA Bantam 2s in the 70s when I was in highschool. My second bike ran (barely). It was a Honda SS50 Fury, same engine as the one he restored in another video. The bike had no kickstart, so it always had to be pushstarted and no off switch, so it had to be stalled to kill the engine. The compression was so weak that you could spin the rear wheel in 1st gear by hand.. I learned how to swap a piston and work around the cam chain and set cam and points timing on that bike. Good memories here. That 175cc engine is the predecessor of my current Honda XR150L..
Allen, perhaps unwittingly, I'm convinced you are providing content here that getting many through these difficult times (with a clear lean towards middle-aged grumpy already-socially-distanced blokes who often emotionally constipated and becoming more so in line with their beard growth) as genuine mental health therapy. A cup of tea and watching one of your contributions a daily joy (though I continue to struggle to grasp much of what going on). Many thanks, keep them coming.
Very cool! I rebuilt an XL185 bike a while back, it dropped a valve. We welded the hole in the top of the piston, slapped in a new valve... gold!! It’s been running ever since
Thank you, Allen, for inspiring me, every time I run into a problem on my 1974 Suzuki RL250 restoration, I come in, make a cup of green tea and watch one of your videos to keep me inspired and I keep on going! Love your work!
I spent most of my early working life on these bikes, I still like to see that they are kept running and still being loved by their owners. Thanks Alan.
I have had some Honda motorcycles in my 75+ years, but I have some body parts I don’t need or have two of that I would swap for the Honda 100. This man is an engineering/mechanical genius. I applaud all his work and efforts. Yes sir, I did subscribe to you and I give you a high five also.
Anyone who dislikes his videos are just jealous. This man is an engineering genius and the couple of immature jerks who have given these videos a thumbs down is just mad they themselves are not capable of such critical thinking
How I wish TH-cam was on the go in 82 when I was putting my mates XL125R motor back together again! It wasn't anything like how you did it but we got it running. At 13 year old I was happy enough!
I went to buy a new swiss army knife and the guy in the shop said he had one with five blades and a bottle-opener. I asked him if he had one with five bottle-openers and a blade.
I liked the video so I went over to my computer and pressed the like button, I then walked back to the sofa and sat down, later I will watch another. Loving the video's Allen!!
This man is an engineering genius. So laid back and matter of fact about what he does. I could listen to him all day. He's the Bob Ross of the bike world.
He makes one feel like a total dumbass...on top of that 😐😁
@@randersson3672 You're not wrong. I've watched the Missenden Flyer interviewing him and he just amazes me. No plans, apart from in his head, no drawings, nothing. He just 'sees it working' and builds what he sees in his head. The man is incredible.
I can’t get over how AM takes a saw to two perfectly good engines and makes engineering porn.
No disrespect to Kawasaki engineers but why did they not extend their wonderful fours into even more wonderful six bangers.
We must have old souls, since you can spot guys like this instantly. Humility + mastery is part of it.
Who is Bob Ross? LOL
I am a mechanical engineer by trade having started my apprenticeship in 1969 with Vickers Armstrong. I have been a biker since I was 14 and loved motorcycle engines since then. You are a true reflection of our great heritage of invention. Long may you inspire us. Dave
How the hell can anyone give this man a thumbs down. The bloke is a genius. If he wasn’t such a nice bloke it would be sickening how clever he is.
Its the purists, The V12 and 6 Kwaka's ruffled some of them.
God bless you Mr Millyard.
simple Knockdolian12 theres 146 people that don't understand genius level mechanical engineering
Jealousy is a curse, my friend.
proper bloke he is. and not against some dad work, you gotta like the guy.
There are morons in all walks of life or they have fat fingers and pressed the wrong one.
I dislike Milly the way he uses a hand hacksaw, he makes me look pathetic 😂😂😂
Alan is so methodical and calm when he works. No swearing or throwing spanners.(I am so envious)
As a former motorcycle mechanic and motorcycle workshop owner, I loved watching this video of a Master Engineer at work on one of Honda's most popular engines.
That copper gasket was a work of art!
I wonder how many times the gasket can be reused?
"So I bored it out and used a vfr750 piston"
Ah yes, the logical step
Absolute madman
And then must make new races for the piston rings….done! As you do.
i was also very surprised with the piston decision. i laughed alot with your comment.
Nice to see AM working on prosaic machines.. Like seeing Michelangelo painting his doorframes..
Mind you, Allen's XL engine has a VFR750 piston, an oversized liner & Kawasaki rings, so I imagine Michelangelo's door frames were a bit special as well...
.. true.. Once I got into the video I realized it wasn't so ordinary..
@@enhancesoutheast5964 Allan Millyard doesn't do ordinary Lol
This ist a very different comparison with Michelangelo.
Leonardo da Vinci is real better, by constrution of Mechanik Maschines and Systems.
well said
The most used equipment in an engine builders arsenal...A BBQ and Swiss army knife..Who knew ?...Love your work Allen.. Honest, no nonsense, Pure engineering.
I could watch you fiddle with engines all day.
Well narrated, like the Bernard Cribbin of the mechanical world.
I’d love to know Alan, This man is a genius a Kawasaki God. Got my up most respect,keep up the good work mate👍
Everybody wants a dad like him :)
His Masters Voice Well, HMV, don’t keep us all in suspense. If you know better than Allen, give us the benefit of your superior knowledge, rather than just trying a put-down. Treatment of magnesium is not an easy process, but it needs some kind of protection. Les
Damn, I want to BE him lol
@His Masters Voice honda did.....he shouldn't.
He my never be your dad, but ha can be your TH-cam buddy.
Mine was but not with his aircraft background. He got me into fixing/ rebuilding cars and to this day I go to yard to get used parts either cheaper or that are no longer made.
I rarely comment on any video, but these are superb. Having seen many of your wonderful bikes over the years, I imagined you worked in a state of the art workshop. It's great to see good use of the BBQ and utility room sink. I'm always getting told off for such things.
This was the first of Allen's vids I ever watched and I was quite impressed he knew how to pull apart and repair one of these little engines.
Certainly was in for a shock when I checked his other vids.
Allen does it again, but this time he triggers some old and fond memories as I bought a brand new Honda XL175 in 1977 it cost $729 AUD. It was my first motorcycle. The very first motorcycle I rode was a Honda QA50 in 1971. Honda and I go back that far. Also after watching a few of Allen's videos he has awakened a urge to make my own gaskets. The the two best tips I have learnt from these videos are to make my own gaskets and change the original screws to socket head screws. Yes, I had to buy an impact driver to remove the over 50 year old seized screws. The worst screw holding the two case halves together took over an hour of beating to remove.
Once again I thank Allen Millyard for his informative videos and reigniting my passion for motorcycles.
Your son is a very fortunate fella to have a dad like you, Allen. Another thoroughly enjoyable video. Thanks for sharing.
45 years of rebuilding engines as a hobby always with access to a lathe and mill never did i think of swapping around piston rings or holding in gudgen pins with buttons not clips. Strange how now and again the penny drops when you watch a complete expert at work. Just like for 30 years to me wheel building was a black art until you see it on You Tube now I rebuild wheels. Thank you Mr Millyard engine rebuilding that contains engineering gold dust....subscribed.
Your content is better than anything found on the BBC. God bless you, Mr. Millyard.
👨👩👧 ❤
You are an inspiration. I was in the carport making a clutch cover gasket and realized I’d forgotten the scissors but, in a flash, I thought of you and pulled my Swiss Army Knife out et voilá. Thanks for saving me a delay.
Hi Allen, I machined the ring grooves on a big bore KTM piston on my Harrison lathe, nearly killed myself, guess who left the gudgeon pin in the piston which promptly flew out at speed when I started the spindle and parted my hair! An inch or two lower and I'm certain I would have killed me. I'm a tool maker with 44 years experience with my own shop, just goes to show you can get your guard down every now and then! 😁 good videos, keep em coming.
No problem you're fired and black balled from The Machinist trade
I left the chuck key in once.... only once
@@nearsightedfromthefarside6534 I did that in metalwork class at school in 1971. As you say - only once!
@@nearsightedfromthefarside6534 I did my fitter and turner apprenticeship in HM Dockyard, Portsmouth in the early 50's. Our lathe instructor was very good. He impressed upon us the importance of always removing the chuck key unless we were going to use it. Penalty for leaving it in, if he saw it, was we had to to hand hacksaw a 6" steel square block with a 12" blade - which took forever - and the time allocated for your test job was still ticking while you did it!
Near sighted from the Far side, because the key flew out the window and was never found?
From Japan
I have been riding the XL250K3 for 43years.
Unfortunately, I gave it up now, but it was a very fun bike even without power.
Watching your video reminded me of my bike.
Thank you for the wonderful video.
At 2.53 I felt aligned and in harmony with the Great Mr AM as I too have an orange B&Q bucket in my workshop.
Made my day
Please keep these videos coming.
What a fortuitous video - I have recently been given a 1976 Honda XL 175 ( in rather rough condition), and have learned more in 13 minutes than in several hours of internet research! Many thanks!
I have been rebuilding and modifying bike engines for many years and although I knew of you, had no idea of your expertise given your, forgive me saying, rudimentary equipment comparable to my own and low profile in 'my world'. As I spent very little time online prior to today's strange times I might never have spent the time watching all your videos. If this enforced lock down has shown me one thing, I have a lot to learn but unfortunately not enough time to get to your level. Respect and I sincerely hope this damn virus does not affect you and your loved ones.......it would be too great a loss. Kindest Regards and Best wishes, Paul.
And don’t take that poison vaccine. It will kill you faster than the “virus “. It’s all about control
@@hondaxl250k0 So true, lost a good friend with a blood clot from the oxford vaccine and he had zero health issues before. Don't know about control, incompetence and over reaction driven by personal avarice more likely.
Delusional gibberish
@@jessiepooch I do not respond to trolls normally but I will simply state....Paul Cosgrove MSc MM. Look me up.
@@paulcosgrove6160 I will simply state... Google says "No results found for "Paul Cosgrove MSc MM".
I feel like I have just watched a genius at work. Effortless engineering skills. The position was a bit sloppy. So Allen has a rummage through his scrap box pulls out a Z Thos piston, takes the rings off and machines the piston to fit. Like it was nothing. I was just in awe throughout this video. It times gone by guys like Allen invented the telephone, electricity and the bouncing bomb from Dambusters. Just knocked up in his shed. I am now a super fan. Incredible
A friend introduced me to your channel knowing I spend hours watching these type of vids after a 2-10 shift. You sir are an absolute genius and by far the best you tuber out there I’ve got to remind myself to breathe while watching on times you have me mesmerised, Thank you 👍
Hi Alan. Please keep making these videos, they’re brilliant. You have a very calming voice, and your skill and knowledge is as vast as the outback. Respect from Western Australia.
Brilliant. This lockdown has its benefits for us fans.
Hi Allan não domino seu idioma, mas esse tal de lockdown tá no mundo inteiro
Dear allaid wow thank you for doing what I was told too be touch much in NZ ?
Is it now like a Suzuki TSCC, twin swirl combustion chamber, after all , it's got a four valve piston un a two valve head Lol.
Absolutely brilliant watching. Love the matter of fact attitude. Oh it was a big bore I had done, changed the vfr piston for a z1 piston, then altered the ring gap.
Tommy Cooper !!!! Just like that !!!
Allan, you are The Man.
Thanks for sharing.
I have long been fascinated by the incredible AM projects so this channel is an absolute treat. Many thanks for posting.
god, this video took me back. back in 83, i had an SL125 which always over heated. i stripped that bloody thing down a dozen times but never could figure it out, so i just lived with it. wish i still had it now. any way, great channel
I was involved with Honda machines from about 1962 onward and served as a mechanic and service manager for 15 or so years. One of my favorites was the CB 160 which I owned as my own commuter bikes. I'd be interested in videos you might cover rebuilding the crankshafts of older small Japanese twins as it takes specialized tooling to be made and finding suitable spare bearings and crankpins. May not be much of a demand for it but these older engines were the bedrock of Honda design back in the day and were very sturdy and dependable.
Excellent! My mate had a dad like that…he was great! What a great oil filter! Love that Allan nearly always have his equivalent of the WW2 marine’s “Garand thumb”!
beautiful job,i wish there was more like this on telly ,rather than all the bull____ that we get fed....programmes for car enthusiasts?? i think not...keep doing what your doing - great!!!
I don't know how you do it Allen but I even find myself marvelling at your gasket making skills.
Can you draw stick figures with a pencil on paper ..if not forget it.
I love the way you are swapping pistons from other engines - well done!
Yeah, he put a piston with 4 valve relief cuts in a 2 valve engine. WTF? I pity that poor combustion chamber...
Back in my misspent youth when I raced an XL-175 I replaced the piston with one from a CB-350. Higher compression!
Just piston rings. He used the honda piston
Im sure Allen would have worked out if this was an Interference Engine and if there were any clearance issues beforehand.
@@mightress yeah but its a 4 valve piston in a 2 valve head.
@@michaelhayward7572 makes no difference for the rings, they just sit in a groove. Nothing to do with the shape of the piston.
The XL175 was my first road bike! Allen, you are a true gem. In this world of ‘if it breaks, chuck it out and get a new one’, you show that with skill and attention to detail, one can keep these engines alive! Curiously, my current bike is a Kawasaki GTR1000! Love your work, and your vids.
Thanks Allen, lovely, gentle, reassuring viewing in these troubled times. And nice to see you doing a simple little job that we mere mortals can relate to. Keep em coming.
I suspect most people might go in for The Flying Millyard video or motorcycle/Viper video. They are great! But, I love posts like this one. They have an almost hypnotic quality. Allen's presentation is so calm and enjoyable!
We Need more Videos Like this!
Stumbled on your channel the other day , I have to say it’s brilliant and so are you ! . Your a bit of a Genius .
Loving the frequent uploads Allen, your work is truly amazing.
You sir are a true craftsman. Please pass your knowledge down to a young person. The world needs more people like you.
Best engineering videos on the net. The tools used here aren't outrageously expensive. What you achieve is an inspiration
Hi Allen. I have been watching for some time now. And I love your shows. The skills you have are a joy to watch. My uncle was 11 years older than me I was born 73.and whe I wa 6 and older. I was in awe of my uncles bike collections over the years. I took it for granted what environment I was in. But I loved it. I know now that I had a great childhood around yamaha and Honda bikes. And your shows remind me so much of those days. F'kin class in a glass. Thanks for sharing.
That was my first bike in 1974, all I did was wash it and change the oil.
I got mine around 1980 with low miles, but same thing, it required no maintenance. I might have adjusted the tappets just for fun, because I like to do that sort of thing.
Not only a supreme mechanic, but a great dad as well!
Masterful, meticulous engine build. Would love to hear it when it's back in the bike. Well filmed with an clear and concise v/o.
First time visitor - genius craftsman at work, a pleasure to watch and pass the lockdown hours
Fantastic, a real eye opener. Can't wait to see the one on head gasket making. Could you also show us some more machining: Cutting piston ring grooves, boring out cylinders, fitting new valve guides and seats? Is it also possible to regrind bearing and cam surfaces, and do nitriding on the BBQ? If anyone knows it would be you!
OMG brother you are such a gentle soul and a awesome mechanic / engineer kinda a Hero to many in America TY for all you work and sharing
Love the videos Alan brings back memories of working on my old CD175 twin, YDS7 Yamaha. 😀
I am a qualified time served (70's)mechanical engineer and biker since then and Allen is without doubt my most admired engineer and bike builder of all time
Great video Allen and thank you, you make it look so easy, look forward to the next.
Back around 1964 my friend had a BSA Super Road Rocket, we were doing an engine overhaul when a more knowledgeable mate and his friend came along as we were putting the cylinders on. This guy suggested we cover the opening with cloth where the camshaft was to stop bits falling inside, great idea. We completed the reassembly and push started the bike, it soon started to billow out smoke. Then someone said, "did we take out the rag?" We all looked at each other, OH shit!!! We took the thing apart to fine the tattered remains of the rage still in the opening. I can't remember how we cleaned it all out but we did get it going again. We had many disasters in our bike maintenance. It was fun time riding and fixing the bikes with very little knowledge. We really needed someone with experience to guide and help us and a proper place to work.
Oh the relative simplicity of a single. I miss my SR500 so much!
Pyro1251 me too!👍
I could watch this guy ALL DAY ! He's not only knowledgeable, he's innovative. His video of marrying two four cylunder heads to make a six clynder head was Amazing !
I wish you were my neighbor. really wanna learn the art of engine rebuilding with you.
It is always a pleasure watching someone who knows what they are doing.
The XL always bemused me. Some parts are like a competition engine (mag covers, high comp, cam directly in head, big valves and relatively lots of revs) but then others are full on endurance designs - air cooling, nut and bolt tappet adjusters, points over cdi, oil spinner, etc).
Its almost like they were making two bikes at once.
To an ageing non mechanically minded petrol head this was immensely satisfying to watch. Thank you it helps a lot to have it explained the way you have. 👍🏼🏍
Thanks Allen, really enjoyed this vid. It was encouraging and vids like this inspire me to set out on my first motorcycle project. Keep vids like this up!
thats brilliant
He's an engineering guru with an attention to detail that a lot of people can't relate to. Respect and admiration in spades.
"Dad, is there any chance you can machine a Suzuki piston to take Kawasaki rings to fit in my Honda, please?"
"No problem son! Put the kettle on, and I'll do it while you make a brew!"
This is so soothing ... I could litteraly listen to you all day long.
Over on the VFR forum, someone posts:
‘One of our pistons is missing...’ ;)
If they are Millard fans it's great news. Think of the weight saving, plus now have an economical Honda V3 with integral cup holder!
I'm ALWAY in Awe at the pure Knawlage & Genius of your skill, you also have an Amazing temperament.. Fantastic ...
Thoroughly enjoyed this video as expected 👍🙌🏴
Loved this video. 👍
Alan, I just want to say as a mechanic, you've really inspired me to get my butt back to work. Experty done craftmanship, and videos.
Why am I not surprised that Mr. Millyard uses the scissors on his swiss army knife to make his own gaskets? Of course that's what he uses, because he is making his own gaskets!
Ive had that swiss knife since 1998 and its cut every paper gasket for every engine ive worked on
if it ain't broke dont fix it.
@@AllenMillyard you must have sharpened those scissors a few times then. They look to cut really well
@@AllenMillyard Same here although I've also found some superb surgery scissors that do a lovely job as well.
I've found the most useful Swiss Army knife to be the Explorer. It is one of only 2 or 3 models (one other is the Golfer) that has the Phillips driver out the end instead of it projecting at right angles, much more useful. It has the loupe as well which is excellent for crack detection.
Tell you what though, I've not found better than Three Bond (Hondabond, Yamabond) engine sealant, and I've tried every gorilla snot there is or has been. I'll knock apart an untouched 50 year old Japper and the Three Bond inside the engine that squeezed in during initial assembly has never come adrift, swelled, or became brittle. It is in my humble opinion the best case sealant that is made.
In fact, I rarely replace gaskets, I simply remove the part, ignore torn gaskets, apply Three Bond, and bung it back together. They never leak, never.
I think if Allen Millyard were shipwrecked on Gilligan’s Island he could’ve built himself a workshop and not just a boat to escape , but it probably would be a V16 he built from scratch.
He is a proper fabricater
Reminds me of the Motor Cycle Mechanics Magazine of the sixties that used to have a step by step photo assembly of the bikes of the era for young engineers like us. By the way, copper gaskets do not need to be quenched to anneal them, just bring them up to dull red hot, and let them cool naturally. The quenching process applies only to ferrous materials. Great upload .
Great work, that BBQ sees some engineering action.
Now I have another reason to upgrade my BBQ!
I'm surprised its a bought one and he didn't make it, on second thoughts maybe he did, he makes everything else look like it came out of a factory.
@Mr Brightside Try getting the smell of chain grease out of the kitchen when the boss is on the way home from shopping.
This man is BRILLIANT ! Then I realized who he is and his ingenuity with Kawasaki triples. Now I’m going to watch all his videos
Legend in quiet work. Lovely.
Fantastic videos! I learned motorcy mechanics on similar engines as these. I'm nowhere near the level of skill of this gentleman. The first engine I took apart and never got going again was a non running BSA Bantam 2s in the 70s when I was in highschool. My second bike ran (barely). It was a Honda SS50 Fury, same engine as the one he restored in another video. The bike had no kickstart, so it always had to be pushstarted and no off switch, so it had to be stalled to kill the engine. The compression was so weak that you could spin the rear wheel in 1st gear by hand.. I learned how to swap a piston and work around the cam chain and set cam and points timing on that bike.
Good memories here. That 175cc engine is the predecessor of my current Honda XR150L..
Your swiss army knife is a Victorinox Super Tinker if im not mistaken! very nice model.
McGuyver model you mean?
Or maybe a Huntsman which also has scissors
Oh dear.....
Looks like it's had a couple of cylinders added too.
it has plyers can't seem to see any in the latest cataloge with plyers, I bought mine in 1998
Allen, perhaps unwittingly, I'm convinced you are providing content here that getting many through these difficult times (with a clear lean towards middle-aged grumpy already-socially-distanced blokes who often emotionally constipated and becoming more so in line with their beard growth) as genuine mental health therapy. A cup of tea and watching one of your contributions a daily joy (though I continue to struggle to grasp much of what going on). Many thanks, keep them coming.
Blimey im surprised you didn't make it in to a v twin! And fuel inject it!
LOL!
First thing I thought, V-twin superbike for Isle of Man TT races.. oh.. its just a quick rebuild.
Hahaha... well held Jools!
Yeah, I was just waiting on the hacksaw coming out, that's usually my favourite bit.
haha!!
Allan you deserve a few million subs. Just for the educatiomal value.
Very instructive. At first time I was affraid that you add five more cylinders to this one...🤣
This video was a great help when I - as a total novice - rebuilt my CD200 and my CB360. Thank you.
My next tool purchase is a BBQ
Great stuff Allen Keep up the good work
I take it you already own a Swiss Army knife then?
@@ParaBellum2024 Yeah I've never used it to make gaskets though
Very cool! I rebuilt an XL185 bike a while back, it dropped a valve. We welded the hole in the top of the piston, slapped in a new valve... gold!! It’s been running ever since
Great Video: Love these rebuild jobs its nice to see an expert in action would have liked to see it start afterwards :-)
My Isuzu truck has the same oil filter for it's bypass, they work well. Quenching the gasket doesn't soften it any more than letting it cool naturally
I have a red xl185 and was getting ready to restore it...you are a wealth of knowledge and patience!
Amazing, priceless and invaluable!
Thank you, Allen, for inspiring me, every time I run into a problem on my 1974 Suzuki RL250 restoration, I come in, make a cup of green tea and watch one of your videos to keep me inspired and I keep on going! Love your work!
30 seconds in and this is my type of video!
I spent most of my early working life on these bikes, I still like to see that they are kept running and still being loved by their owners. Thanks Alan.
Nice job on that engine! 👍😎
I have had some Honda motorcycles in my 75+ years, but I have some body parts I don’t need or have two of that I would swap for the Honda 100. This man is an engineering/mechanical genius. I applaud all his work and efforts. Yes sir, I did subscribe to you and I give you a high five also.
Great instructional vid, more please!!
I couldn't be more happier having father like you Allen
31 dislikes !!! Are they NUTS ??
I would imagine they are purple faced with jealousy.. like me.. .but I totally Thumbed this UP!
Anyone who dislikes his videos are just jealous. This man is an engineering genius and the couple of immature jerks who have given these videos a thumbs down is just mad they themselves are not capable of such critical thinking
they must have a screw loose
@@PatrickKelly-lz3pv Yeah, all it needs is a lil tap here and a wiggle there. That should fix it.
How I wish TH-cam was on the go in 82 when I was putting my mates XL125R motor back together again! It wasn't anything like how you did it but we got it running. At 13 year old I was happy enough!
The copper gasket could be heated in a toaster for uniform heating
May I barrow your toaster?
Red hot? What is your toast like, carbonized?
Genius at work , so down to earth , and no posh state of the art workshop yet does such technical stuff.
I wouldn't miss this stuff for the world. I'm now subscribed!!! BTW I am available for adoption!!!😂😂😂.
Phil Morrow
Me too lol
And Me !!!!
Wish I had shed with all those tools but rent I so expensive in Los Angeles's suburbs
Phil Morrow me too,and I’m older than Allen!🤣🤣
😂😂😂 The only person on the planet to use the Swiss Army Knife scissors. Brilliant!
No, I use them all the time. They’re nearly as useful as the bottle opener :o)
Nope, i use the hell out of mine. Brilliant little pair of scissors.
I went to buy a new swiss army knife and the guy in the shop said he had one with five blades and a bottle-opener. I asked him if he had one with five bottle-openers and a blade.
I liked the video so I went over to my computer and pressed the like button, I then walked back to the sofa and sat down, later I will watch another. Loving the video's Allen!!