1987 gl 1200 I head gasket

[ronscycle1]

What's a good way to resurface heads ?

[halfjacket1234]

Check out the DIY page , there is a great way to resurface them (or any item that has a mating surface).


viewtopic.php?f=12&t=13935

You can also use the search tab on the top right hand of the screen and it will bring up different threads that people talked about resurfacing heads. I am actually going to be following this method soon to resurface my heads when the weather cools down.

[ekvh]

A sheet of plate glass and sandpaper works well. Be very careful that whatever downpressure you put in it is evenly placed. If you just start moving it back and forth you will likely inadvertently put more pressure on one side and get an uneven surface. I constantly keep turning mine when I do them so each part of the head gets similar pressure, push and pull.

[ronscycle1]

Will I have to disassemble the head to resurface it , like the valves ?

[geraldm]

I constantly keep turning mine when I do them so each part of the head gets similar pressure, push and pull.

.
Yes do the push pull thing in a bit of a circular pattern and also slowly turn the head in your hands at the same time , take your time ,a wet paper is probably the best . you will be surprised how well it works . you could take the head apart and replace seals at the same time , never a very good idea to do this kinda work without disassembly , dam sand gets in everything . wash everything especially well after completion . not a good thought to be riding along wondering if the grit is prematurely wearing stuff out JMO. good luck.

[Charlie1Horse]

Yes, take the heads apart. Clean all the carbon from the valves on a wire wheel and hand lap the valves, replace the seals and you should be 'good to go'. You should do both heads as the head gasket on one side should be as old as the one you are changing and probably will blow soon.
Russell

Those who say it cannot be done should try not to interrupt those who are doing it.