Compression question PEASE HELP: KZ1000 E 1980

I appreciate that. I think this sounds like a good approach-- get in there and improve valve function, then start collecting parts/tools for the day the top end gets torn down and rebuilt.

Obsession. What is your location? I for one wouldn't mind helping you out.

Flatblackobsession wrote: Nesim,
Thanks very much-- I really appreciate the thoughts.

........I keep wondering if the uniform 20 psi increase across all cylinders wouldn't just be cause by the fact that there is oil in the cylinder (like displacement caused by the oil itself). ........

I've often wondered about that myself. Given the fact that at TDC there is very little volume above the piston it seems that adding any oil, for example -let's say a tablespoon, would naturally decrease the volume of air and result in a higher compression reading. Kind of like the effect of a piston with a higher dome. It seems that even in a perfect engine this would happen. Ed

I'm in southeast Arizona, I'd be happy to have some more experienced help on this.

No eBay APP ID and/or Cert ID defined in Kunena configurationAnyone know what tool (if any) I'd need for shim work on this bike (Kz1000e shaft)? Also, what shim sizes might I be looking at with this?

If a tool is needed, is this the animal I'll need:

Anyone ever use one of these before?

Right-- very baffling. So, the question would then be: how much of a compression increase (i.e. "drastic" compression increase) indicates oil action on the rings, as opposed to displacement? A hell of a mystery.

I also put a little more than a teaspoon in there-- maybe 15-20 milliliters, but it was the same amount in each cylinder, so it makes me wonder if that isn't why there was this uniform psi increase-- regardless of base cylinder readings.

Any and all thoughts on experiences/theories are appreciated. I really want to get to the bottom of this.
Thanks,

Flatblackobsession wrote: Right-- very baffling. So, the question would then be: how much of a compression increase (i.e. "drastic" compression increase) indicates oil action on the rings, as opposed to displacement? A hell of a mystery.

I also put a little more than a teaspoon in there-- maybe 15-20 milliliters, but it was the same amount in each cylinder, so it makes me wonder if that isn't why there was this uniform psi increase-- regardless of base cylinder readings.

Any and all thoughts on experiences/theories are appreciated. I really want to get to the bottom of this.
Thanks,

That seems very logical to me. I would think that if all the rings are holding compression well, the same volume of oil added to each cylinder should result in the same increase in compression readings. I would try a leak-down test to see if you can detect compression leaking from the exhaust or intake valves, or if it's leaking past the rings into the crankcase. Ed

650ed,
Thanks-- a leakdown test seems like a great idea.

You need to adjust the valves prior to performing a leak down test.

Indeed-- all roads seem to lead to valves. Thanks.

Absolutely. If the clearances are too tight, the valves will not close completely and all readings will be off, performance down, etc.

No eBay APP ID and/or Cert ID defined in Kunena configuration

Flatblackobsession wrote: Anyone know what tool (if any) I'd need for shim work on this bike (Kz1000e shaft)? Also, what shim sizes might I be looking at with this?

If a tool is needed, is this the animal I'll need:

Anyone ever use one of these before?

These work O.K. in a pinch. However there is a Kawasaki tool that is much more precise. You wont know what shims you'll need until you get yours out. You'll have to = or- according to your readings. Measure your gap. then ad the size to the next, larger shim. If you encounter a shim that it over tight. Install one two sizes smaller and then re check. It's not hard, but you need a selection of shims, a good quality shim tool, a strong stick magnet and a small pointy screwdriver. Even with experience, the K&L type tools will shoot across the room...crack shims...spit out shims...But, if you wont be doing this job often, maybe the low price would make it worth while. I wish I were closer.