Help - Inexpensive Engine Parts

jasondtsu · 01-28-2008, 8:09 PM

I've decided to dissect the head on my XX to do some much needed cleaning, maintenance, and a little porting. The pistons & combustion chambers were caked with carbon buildup and the valve seats weren't clean either... I think that's why my compression tests ranged from 125psi to 205psi. Anyway... to my question...

I'm looking for a good, inexpensive source of parts. I've looked on BikeBandit and hdlparts.com and prices on some things seems ridiculous. For example... unless I'm misinterpreting their pricing... a set of 16 valve stem seals costs over $110. I'm not afraid to use aftermarket parts... but I don't necessarily want to skimp on important things like a head gasket.

Any ideas?

CanadianBird · 01-28-2008, 8:18 PM

Is that expensive. What's your mileage? How's it running because although my '02 has 120,000 kms and runs fantastic, I'm wondering what she looks like inside. You've peaked my interest. Keep this thread running. Cheers

jasondtsu · 01-28-2008, 8:33 PM

It just seems a little expensive for 16 valve stem seals. They are $6.87/ea at hdlparts.com and even more at BikeBandit. My buddy replaced 24 valve stem seals on his Dodge Stealth & they were < $40 and 16 seals for my Mustang GT are only $32. Replacement XX head bolts are about $5.50 each also... so the price for parts is adding up quickly.

The internal engine passages seem very clean (from what I can see)... only the valves, piston faces, and combustion chambers were dirty and caked with junk. Despite the dirtiness... she still ran very well and pulled 136rwhp on the dyno a while back.

She's got about 35,000 miles on her.

CanadianBird · 01-28-2008, 8:46 PM

It sounds like a good idea to me. Good Luck

1100xxben · 01-28-2008, 11:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jasondtsu

...My buddy replaced 24 valve stem seals on his Dodge Stealth & they were < $40 and...

I think your buddy is full of crap and an idiot to boot

bullet · 01-29-2008, 9:49 AM

...don't bother with carbon built up on pistons..take good care of the head ports and valve seats ....such difference in psi check don't seem to be related with carbon built...seems like valve seats problem...or worn / stuck compresion rings.....i'm planning to buy things from hdlparts..i find them cheap in comparance with the ridiculus pricing of my country dealer..