R1200RT Wethead Valve Clearance at 24,000 miles

[hefy_jefy]

Posting this for info and comments:

Bike is 2014 R1200RT, just got back from a longish (5,400mile) ride so running a bit late with the 24,000 mile service. Now done just over 26,000. I have done all servicing myself except the initial and 6,000 miles...

Exhaust valves are all still in spec (0.37 > 0.39) an increase of around 0.02 on the 12,000 mile numbers.
The inlet valves are all at or just above the top end (0.17 >0.18), up about 0.04 on average over the clearances at 12,000
Just wondering if anybody else has any experience with this, it seems the inlet wear a bit faster than the exhaust? I gather that shims are available in 0.02 thickness increments. I guess I will aim to get them all near the low end of the spec.
Geoff

 

[105258]

15-R1200GSA Valve Check

I have 70,000 kms on my bike now and the intake valve have tightened a touch and the exhaust haven't moved at all. I would suggest that before you get too worried about the valve clearance check the cam timing. It is a very common issue with these engines that he cam timing drifts off and could cause incorrect reading on valve clearance. The process is simple and is made easier by using a valve locking block and crank locking pin, both available from you local BMW dealer for a reasonable price. Usually one of the indicators of timing drift is the bike won't start on first try, but fires right up after the second. This is because the cam position sensor tells the fuel management that the valves are not in the correct position and no fuel is supplied to the injectors.

 

[gr8ridn2]

One other tool you will need is the cam chain tensioning tool and collar. If you adjust the cam timing without the proper chain tension the actual timing will be way off. The reason is the oil pressure chain tensioner is not working with the engine off. While the factory has a spring built into the tensioner it is inadequate for proper tension without the added oil pressure.

Another reason the cam timing check is a good thing to do periodically is the cam chain does stretch during it's service life. That chain stretch will change the cam timing and affect the performance of the engine. The cam location trigger (left side)is off timing in this case causing starting problems and a can set the check engine light resulting in reduced performance mode. Best to have the dealer check the timing unless you have the repair manual, the special tools, and skills to do the work. It isn't a difficult job, but requires the correct procedure and precision. I have found new engines to be slightly off. After correcting the cam timing the engine was smoother and seemed to pick up a little power in the mid range.