Made some progress. First of all, I have edited my previous post to indicate that the 836 kit will be reserved for my
next build (dragbike?). I have decided to use CycleX 1mm over (62mm) pistons for this build to help keep costs in check since I won't be compelled to replace the cylinder studs for such a mild overbore. Here's a gander at the pistons that were
removed (notice two flat tops and two domed):
Cylinders before:
Head before:
More evidence that there wasn't many miles covered in this condition since what remains of the head gasket is easily removed. Too bad that there is still remnants of the
previous head gasket still in place.
Prepping the glass (a.k.a. the "elbow mill"). The glas is about 3/8" thick and I use about half a tube of valve lapping compound:
Add spritzes of water until a smooth paste is achieved that can be easily spread:
I work surface of the part from side to side in a circular motion. The compound migrates outward and I have to stop from time to time to scrape the compound back to the center, occasionally adding spritzes of water as necessary. After about an hour on the glass I end up with something like this:
Notice the finish has a glass beaded appearance. This is an accumulation of the lapping compound and needs to be scrubbed off with a scotchbrite or steel wool. I use soapy water and a scotchbrite to reveal actual progress:
And
finally after about two hours (each) on the "elbow mill" ("decked" the cylinders too):
The process usually requires replacing the compound once about halfway through so I end up using a full tube to smooth the head. New pistons should be here Tuesday so I can then get the cylinders off to the machinist. Will spend the weekend cleaning, polishing, replacing seals/gaskets, and maybe some painting. When the cylinders get back from the shop I want to be ready to button this up and get it back in the frame!
