Sealant cure time

I've done this several times over the past thirteen years, but want to get some expert opinions on this process...

What is the recommended wait-time before starting an engine after installing the cam cover with new oem cam-end plugs and gasket? ThreeBond 1211 was applied to the rubber plugs, and I want it to cure sufficiently before starting the motor.

I changed one valve shim (by one thickness increment), so the motor will be getting hot with a carb-sync shortly after starting it.

Davo, a good question. You are caught in a "catch 22" situation. Whereas, if you want the cam-end plugs to seat, they need pressure from the cam-cover and gasket. Too much pressure will allow the plug, with sealant, to slowly move to where it is most comfortable.... That is usually poking out!

I think the solution is pinch the cam-cover up so there is light pressure on the cam-end plugs and allow to cure for at least two days.... Then finally tighten the cam-cover. If by chance you have already fitted them and the cam-cover is tightened and they haven't moved, I would leave them at least three days

I have often thought the trouble was in not using the original genuine part, however, I have found they do the same.
RegardZ.

I've already tightened it down with the gasket. :blush:

Three days??? :ohmy: No way! I'll be nuts by day two.



Your suggestion makes perfect sense.

You used the WRONG threebond.

I always use threebond 1104 or 1194 since they apparently don't make 1104 anymore usually I don't use any sealant if they are new, but if i'm reusing the old ones I install them backwards and seal around the bottom never on the gasket surface on my own motors, that way they cant blow out and as soon as I get the gasket and valve cover bolted down its ready to go.

MDawnz1

:ohmy: What sealant should be used on the rubber end-plugs?

timebomb33

The plugs used on the J-motor have the aluminum facing, and can't be reversed. I'll look into Threebond 1194 as an alternative the next time around.

The 1211 was recommended to me by a KZ1000-P mechanic, that serviced those bikes for several years.

I use a thin bead of black high temp RTV.
Apply it to the 'V' groove on the cam end plug that is formed along where the lip sits over the edge.
Seat it in the head but leave it VERY slightly proud of the surface and leave it to cure overnight.
Assemble the cam cover as normal then peel off any excess cured rtv from around the plug.
I have never had one leak or blown out.
Engine can be run straight away.

zed1015 wrote: I use a thin bead of black high temp RTV.
Apply it to the 'V' groove on the cam end plug that is formed along where the lip sits over the edge.
Seat it in the head but leave it VERY slightly proud of the surface and leave it to cure overnight.
Assemble the cam cover as normal then peel off any excess cured rtv from around the plug.
I have never had one leak or blown out.
Engine can be run straight away.

I also use the Ultra-Black HI Temp sealant. I install every thing and pull the cover bolts down FINGER TIGHT using a 10 mm socket, no wrench. Then let it sit a couple of hours and tighten it up snug (not fully). I let it cure overnight then tighten to full torque which is about 60 - 70 Inch-pounds for cover bolts. manual says something like 110 I-P but that's too high.

Glad to see a few users of black RTV. Bought new cam end plugs and they were not the best fit so I stuck with the stockers and used RTV.

One leaked very slightly but the second time around got it and all 4 are perfect after 600 miles.