BMW F650CS Valve Removal Guide

Understanding Valve Removal on Your BMW F650CS

Performing maintenance on your BMW F650CS can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to keep your machine running in peak condition. One of the more involved procedures, often necessary for performance tuning or addressing issues like poor compression, is the removal of the engine valves. This process requires precision, the right tools, and a methodical approach. This guide will walk you through the essential steps, drawing upon the technical expertise typically found in BMW Motorrad service manuals, to help you undertake this task with confidence.

Preparation is Key: What You'll Need

Before you begin dismantling your F650CS engine, ensure you have all the necessary tools and parts. Consulting the official BMW F650CS Repair Manual is highly recommended, as it provides specific torque values and diagrams crucial for reassembly. Here’s a general list of what you might need:

• BMW F650CS Repair Manual
• Comprehensive socket and wrench set
• Torque wrench (essential for reassembly)
• Feeler gauges for valve clearance measurement
• Valve spring compressor (specific to your engine type)
• Piston ring compressor (if cylinder head removal requires piston access)
• Clean rags and degreaser
• Suitable containers for draining fluids
• New gaskets and seals (highly recommended for reassembly)
• Lubricating grease (e.g., Optimoly TA, Staburags NBU 30 PTM)
• Loctite (specific types as per manual, e.g., Loctite 243, Loctite 2701)
• A clean, well-lit workspace
• BMW special tools (refer to the manual for specific part numbers)

Step-by-Step Valve Removal Process

The process of removing valves typically involves significant disassembly of the engine's top end. Always ensure the engine is cool before starting.

1. Accessing the Cylinder Head

The first major step is to gain access to the cylinder head. This usually involves removing body panels, the fuel tank, and the intake air system. The manual details the specific sequence for these removals:

• Remove the left and right covers.
• Remove the intake air silencer and intake air pipe.
• Disconnecting the intake air silencer from the throttle body is a key step.
• The radiator and expansion tank may need to be moved or removed for better access.

2. Exposing the Cylinder Head and Valves

Once the intake system is clear, you'll need to expose the cylinder head itself:

• Remove the ignition coil bracket and ignition coil.
• Disconnect any hoses and breather pipes connected to the cylinder head cover.
• Carefully remove the spark plug.
• Undo the fasteners for the cylinder head cover. Note the positioning of the ignition coil anchorages.
• Gently remove the cylinder head cover with its gasket. It's crucial to avoid damaging the sealing surfaces.

3. Preparing for Valve Removal

With the cylinder head cover removed, you can see the valve train:

• The crankshaft needs to be rotated to the Top Dead Centre (TDC) position for cylinder number 1. The manual specifies how to identify this position, often by aligning marks on the timing chain sprockets with the cylinder head.
• Secure the timing chain to the sprockets using cable ties to prevent it from falling.
• Remove the chain guide if necessary for access.
• It's often recommended to lock the crankshaft at TDC using a specific BMW tool (e.g., BMW No. 11 6 570) inserted into the oil feed stub pipe.
• Remove the inlet and exhaust camshafts. Handle them with care, ensuring they are properly lubricated upon reinstallation.

4. Compressing the Valve Springs and Removing Valves

This is the core of the valve removal process:

• Using a suitable valve spring compressor, carefully compress the spring for one valve.
• As the spring is compressed, you will expose the valve collets (keepers). These are small, tapered pieces that hold the valve in place.
• Gently remove the collets. A magnetic tool or a small pick can be useful here. Be extremely careful not to lose these small parts.
• Once the collets are removed, slowly release the tension on the valve spring compressor.
• Remove the valve spring retainer and the valve spring.
• The valve can now be carefully withdrawn from its guide. It's good practice to keep the valves, springs, and collets organised by cylinder and whether they are intake or exhaust, as they are often not interchangeable.
• Repeat this process for all valves.

Important Note on Valve Clearances: Before disassembly, it's advisable to check the valve clearances. The manual specifies the procedure and the correct clearances: Inlet valves typically require 0.03-0.11 mm, and exhaust valves 0.25-0.33 mm. If adjustments are needed, this process is usually done with shims located under the valve bucket tappets. The manual provides detailed instructions on how to remove and replace these shims.

Table: Key Torque Specifications for Cylinder Head Components

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I check my valve clearances?

A: BMW recommends checking valve clearances during Inspection II and Inspection III, which typically occur every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) and 20,000 km (12,000 miles) respectively.

Q: Can I reuse the old valve collets and springs?

A: While springs can sometimes be reused if in good condition, it's generally best practice to use new collets, as they are critical for valve retention. If you are performing a performance upgrade or have experienced valve float, new springs might also be advisable.

Q: What if I don't have a valve spring compressor?

A: Attempting to remove valves without the correct tool is highly discouraged. A proper valve spring compressor ensures safety and prevents damage to the cylinder head, valves, or yourself. Invest in the correct tool or seek professional assistance.

Q: Is it necessary to remove the camshafts to remove the valves?

A: Yes, in most designs, including likely the F650CS, the camshafts must be removed to allow access to the valve spring retainers and collets.

Q: What kind of grease should I use for reassembly?

A: The BMW manual specifies lubricants like Staburags NBU 30 PTM for bearing bushings and Optimoly TA for pivot shafts. Always use the recommended lubricants to ensure proper function and longevity.

Conclusion

Removing valves from your BMW F650CS is a significant mechanical task that requires attention to detail and adherence to the manufacturer's specifications. By carefully following the steps outlined and consulting your repair manual for precise details and torque settings, you can successfully complete this procedure. Remember, patience and cleanliness are paramount for a successful outcome and to ensure your F650CS continues to provide reliable performance.

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