Recent content by deadrabbit

I don't think its the head gasket or the rings. I just a few days ago replaced the rings and the head and base gaskets.

I was riding my 1977 xs400 and suddenly the was a small lurch and the engine died. When the electric starter is actuated, it sounds as though the starter motor is spinning without any load. The kick starter moves smoothly and oddly easily. I removed a spark plug and put a thumb over the opening...

I got most of the carbon off of the pistons with a bass bristled brush and soaking in a tin can full of brake cleaner. I would be polishing the face of the piston with the steel wool to help retard future carbon deposits.

Ill have some of that

Is it safe to use 0000 grade steel wool on the faces of the pistons to remove carbon? I have been using 000 grade wool and kerosene to remove head gasket residue; is this a good idea? 1977 XS400D.

I have a 1977 xs400d

Does anybody know if xs650 valves are compatible with an xs400 engine? What about the using the valve guides to a 650 on 400 valves?