Topic: So... this is bad, right? *Update on post #9*

[Dimitri13]

Split the cases finally. Took forever (who knew you had to remove the pistons to get the top case off? selective reading, of course). It was dark already so I wasn't able to look at everything, but a quick glance revealed the primary chain has about 1/2" of slack, and one of the con rods has a ton of free play on the crank. I couldn't see anywhere where the primary or cam chain ate into the case (will be 100% sure tomorrow), so is it possible the amount of shavings in the oil pan is from the bearing getting gradually chewed up? What are the bearings even made out of?

Thanks for all the help so far guys. Will post more pictures tomorrow as well.

[fastbroshi]

That doesn't sound good.  Definitely warrants more inspection.

[trueblue]

The bearings are made of white metal on a steel backing, I'm not sure exactly the metal composition of the bearings, I think they are an aluminium alloy of some sort.  It looks like bearing material in the picture of your sump.  If you spin a bearing it doesn't take long to chew it to pieces and makes horrible noises, sort of like someone hitting on the inside of your engine with a large hammer.  Also if you can feel movement in any of the rod bearings the bearing is shagged.

[Dimitri13]

Oh, and one of the intake valves is stuck in the guide. It looks like the top got hit and has spread out just a bit, making a lip that won't go past the top of the guide.

Is it okay to sand off the lip to get it out?

What do I use to clean off the carbon from the chamber, piston tops, and valves?

[trueblue]

Oh, and one of the intake valves is stuck in the guide. It looks like the top got hit and has spread out just a bit, making a lip that won't go past the top of the guide.

Is it okay to sand off the lip to get it out?

What do I use to clean off the carbon from the chamber, piston tops, and valves?

Use a small file to remove the burr and a wire buff to clean the carbon off.

[Dimitri13]

A wire buff... Like a wire wheel? Can I just take it to my bench grinder?

[trueblue]

Yeah a wire wheel, you can use one attached to a bench grinder, but it is not the best for the head, it is a bit rough on the aluminium.  You are better off using one attached to a drill or die grinder to clean the chambers.

[Dimitri13]

Alright. I have a wire brush attachment for my drill. Valves and pistons on the bench grinder are fine?

[trueblue]

Valves are fine on the bench grinder with a wire wheel, pistons are ok, just be very gentle with them and take your time.

[Dimitri13]

Will do.

[CBGhia]

If you have a brass wheel, I would use that.