Awesome video series, Brad - thank you! I purchased the full set of tools from Brad and performed the valve mechanical timing adjustment on my 2019 R1250GS. Both sides intake and exhaust cam timing was off by a few degrees, and my bike runs better (quieter and more power) after performing this procedure. Interestingly, the valve clearance was OK on my bike, and from what I can tell by reading the BMW repair manual procedures in the DVD I have, the valve timing procedure is only done if the valve clearances need to be adjusted. So in my case, the valve timing would not have been accomplished by the dealer.
Very thorough very complete instruction and how to accomplish these tasks. After watching the video though, you talked me out of buying an R1250 RS. Seems like a giant PITA to me. Valve adjustment and cam timing are not something that you can ignore. I’d like to avoid the dealership at all costs due to my experience with them. Thanks again for helping me avoid the headache!
The point here is that you can do this, or let me do it for you, and it will be done for the rest of your ownership of the bike. It just needs to be to the 12k point to be broken in and stabilized from new assembly, then when the Cam Timing and Valve Clearances are set correctly, they STAY set for 100k plus. Having worked extensively on HexHeads/CamHeads, and now WetHeads and ShiftHeads, I think the last 2 generations of the Boxer engine are well worth the experience of ownership...and maintenance.
You don't need to change the oil when doing the Cam Timing/and or/ Valve Clearance Check. Typically, the oil that drains out of both LH and RH valve covers is about 5-6oz total, or about 180ml. The remaining oil in the engine is not contaminated or affected at all.
I read somewhere you sell this set of specialty tools: tdc pin, cam chain tensioner tool, cam alignment tool... is this true, if so where can I order them ?
I have transferred my inventory and production to a full fledged CNC machine shop and that shop will be able to fulfill orders very soon...I will make the announcement primarily on the BMW R1200/1250 Forums, like BMWST.com
Nice helpful video. Dont own a R1250 but am considering one. Given your tool list, several are specialty tools. Any idea what dealers charge to do this?
Last week I did a Cam/Valve Service on a bike that just had a 12k service done for $800. That 12k service did not check or adjust Cam Timing, which it needed, and only checked valve clearances to be within the range, not setting them to a desired target value.
I don’t doubt it. It’s near impossible to find competent mechanics nowadays. I can tell from your videos that your skills and wisdom are exceptional. Unfortunately between work, life and winter soon approaching, that’s a trip I can’t make this year.
Considering the relative infrequent need to perform this service, is the only/best way to purchase these tools from you? Or, is it possible to rent them for a week? Please comment on how a person would obtain these tools from you. Thank you.
Hi Andrew, as of now, I don't have a set of tools that are available just for rental. I may dedicate a set of tools for that purpose when I'm at the end of my supply of Cam Chain Tensioners since that is the real limiting tool in the set. Right now, I have about 20 sets of Cam Chain Tensioners built and about 15 more to machine, but that's the end of the supply...and I may be done making them. I can easily produce the other tools like the Engine Turning Tool, the TDC Tool, and the Torque Adapter, and I'm starting production of the Cam Alignment Jigs for the ShiftHead engines, but that will also have a limited run of production. For availability and pricing, send me a PM on www.BMWSportTouring.com Forum. Username Boxflyer
Brad, I purchase the BMW cam chain tensioner tool on ago. I'm doing the cam timing and valve adjust today. I can't find instructions on the BMW cam chain tool. Don't know how to set the tension. Know I've seen videos previously, possible one of yours. Can you help?
Got the cam chain tensioner tool figured out. No instructions found, just used intuition. Successfully aligned/timed cams. Valve lash was in spec. Thank you for you great videos!
Did you have all 3 Cam Timing Tools? 1) TDC Locking Pin, 2)Cam Chain Tensioner with 15mm Sleeve, 3)Cam Alignment Jigs...there are published procedures for doing this along with correct Torque values...intuition will leave you far off the mark when it comes to doing Cam Timing and Valve Clearance Checks.
@@Boxflyer11 . Yes, I have all the BMW tools. Watched all your videos, including use of your chain tensioner. Couldn't find specific info on the BMW Chain Tensioner, but deductive reasoning led me to the correct use. Similar to your tool, it is screwed in until seated, then tension is applied until the tool "breaks" like a torque wrench. Upon "breaking" no further tension can be applied. This is when the cams are timed. I followed all your instructions for cam timing and valve lash, including all torque values.
I understand how the tools work, it was not clear if you used all the tools needed to align the cams, and if you had enough data for the specs on the process. Your reference to intuition is what my comments were about.
Having done valve lash adjustments on many different motorcycles over many decades, I am completely adept at the procedures. Your succinct videos make the steps crystal clear. I use your Torque Sheet, and Timing/Clearance Worksheet. While this could be a daunting and complicated chore, your instructions make the job easy. Thank you.
LOL He sure placed a big dent on most stealers. Then again, those that can easily afford a GS, can easily afford the cost of these expensive services, the problem is if the stealer actually does the job.
I don't mean to compete with any dealership, I really wanted to show owners that this service (not called for in routine schedules) can be done by a competent mechanic if you have access to the special tools required.
