So. Cal. Service Party

[mjordans2000]

Ken and I were thinking it's about time for a service party. My bike is available for a clutch slave cylinder or valve adjust demo. I will already have all fluids and filters changed if we want to make it a 12k demo which should allow time to work on a couple of bikes. Any preferences or other projects you'd like to see?

[ustasub]

Ken and I were thinking it's about time for a service party. My bike is available for a clutch slave cylinder or valve adjust demo. I will already have all fluids and filters changed if we want to make it a 12k demo which should allow time to work on a couple of bikes. Any preferences or other projects you'd like to see?
and I'd be interested, even if I'm not ready for any maintenance on the date that it happens, maybe I could save some cash when I am due.

[graydude]

Final drive replacement? Seriously, I like to see a brake bleed and a valve adjustment. I did my 24K myself but had the dealer do the brake and clutch. Cost me $300! If the group wants to come just north of San Diego County, I can offer a three car garage, air, decent tools, plenty of floor space etc...

[meese]

I can offer a three car garage, air, decent tools, plenty of floor space etc...That's pretty tempting . . .

The hard part will be finding a date. If we want to do something on a weekend, I'm looking at March 11 or maybe the 12th. Otherwise I'm tied up until the end of April. Or maybe you could coax Shealey out for the day. :)

[dshealey]

Depending on when and where, I may try to make it to meet everyone. Need any pistons replaced? :D

[meese]

Need any pistons replaced? :DToo easy. How about a sprag clutch? :D

[dmatson]

I would love to see a 12K service or anything else. I will need a 12K soon and would like to do it my self. When and where?

[graydude]

My birthday is March 12th so that weekend is no good for me. How about march 18th?

[dshealey]

Too easy. How about a sprag clutch? :D

What, a week long party? :D :D

[RT_COOP]

I don't need any service that I know of, but would be interested to stop up and see a tupperware removal operation and some of this bleeding that I've been reading so much about. It would also be a good chance to find out more about what I didn't know I need to do to this already wonderful machine.

[dglenn1]

Depending on date I'm ready for my 6K. Haven't taken a tool to the bike yet but would be interested in learning along with some experts. I'm out of town on Sunday 3/19 and the weekend of 3/25, but good otherwise.

[mjordans2000]

Adding brakes and clutch adjust/bleed should fit within the available time. I can save those items for the party or if someone else needs those items we can work on theirs.

[mjordans2000]

The 6k is little more than an oil change. The needed steps are also part of the 12k so you'll see everything you need.

[strsout]

I would like to go.
It will work on Sundays for me, and my current opens ones are:
March: 5, 12,19
I would like 19.

I can ride anywere from LA to SDiego and I also can offer my 3 car garage in San Bernardino, but not too many tools.

[sorchilla]

Would be interested if in April. Would also like to me the gang.

[meese]

Once again, scheduling these things is always the tricky part. :)

I'm only available March 11 or 12th, then I'm out of state through April. Having access to a 3 car garage is a nice bonus.

So option 1 puts us at Elton's in San Bernardino on Sunday March 12th, but it does leave Todd out this time. I'd be glad to be head tech on that one.

Option 2 is Saturday March 18 at Todd's in Temecula, or Sunday March 19 at Elton's. Michael or David would have to be head tech.

Option 3 is scheduling something in May, though my weekends are limited then as well. Note that this can still be done even if we pick option 1 or 2 above. Much after that and summer kicks in and I'm sure people would rather just be riding. :)

Isn't juggling multiple calendars fun?

[mjordans2000]

Right now they all work for me but I'd prefer March 12th. Adding a second session some time in May sounds great.

[graydude]

Option 2 is a go with me. I can't do the 12th as it's my birthday. Granted I can think of no better way to spend my B-day than with like minded riders wrenching on bikes while enjoying a cold beverage or two but my wife has something planned.

[meese]

...but my wife has something planned.If you want, we can all talk to her. :D

Of course, there's no reason we can't do it both weekends, at two different garages if needed.

[mjordans2000]

I was thinking the same thing. Sounds like there are enough of us to hold two sessions. Is Dave available for the 18th? Also for the 12th we need to consider parts since it's a Sunday. We can always do the gap checks on the 12th and the actual adjustments, if any, on the 18th. If I get a chance I'll check mine this week and bring any parts I need with me. Also, since mine shouldn't take too long is any one else hoping to go under the wrench on the 12th or the 18th? If so, let us know what you need. We want to make sure there is enough time, personal, and parts to have a successful day.

[dglenn1]

<snip> Also, since mine shouldn't take too long is any one else hoping to go under the wrench on the 12th or the 18th? <snip>

I haven't been to one of these before so I was wondering what to expect. Since mine is just a 6k, there probably isn't much to learn from diving into my bike. I'm thinking I'd show up with a digital camera and a notepad rather than oil and a filter kit.

I'm still good on the 12th but the rest of my March is slipping away.

Thanks for putting this together.

[dshealey]

I was thinking the same thing. Sounds like there are enough of us to hold two sessions. Is Dave available for the 18th? Also for the 12th we need to consider parts since it's a Sunday. We can always do the gap checks on the 12th and the actual adjustments, if any, on the 18th. If I get a chance I'll check mine this week and bring any parts I need with me. Also, since mine shouldn't take too long is any one else hoping to go under the wrench on the 12th or the 18th? If so, let us know what you need. We want to make sure there is enough time, personal, and parts to have a successful day.

I could possibly make the 18th if you need a lead tech for the session. Where would it be held?

[meese]

Dan,

Since yours is just a 6K, you might as well bring the filter and oil and we can do your bike as well. We should have the room, and the time.

[meese]

I could possibly make the 18th if you need a lead tech for the session. Where would it be held?Thanks, David. I'd guess the 12th would be at Elton's in San Bernardino, and the 18th at Todd's in Temecula. We could always come down by you, but I'm guessing their 3-car garages aren't nearly so full of stuff. :)

Once Elton and Todd confirm that's OK, we can set up a sign-up list so we know who to expect each day and what service or farkles they need done. That way we can have the right tools available, and get suggested parts lists to people as well. Note that just coming to hang out and learn is fine, too.

[mjordans2000]

Absolutely Dan. Bring your oil and filter. The oil change is easy but their is a couple of things to learn. Mine will already have the oil changed so changing your oil could be helpful for anyone who hasn't done it.

[mjordans2000]

Hey Ken, it's starting to sound like the plans coming together. I figure on trying to be there both days since we started this. It will be great to have David along on the 18th, I always learn something from him. As I mentioned earlier we can use my bike for the valve check demo as well as the brake/clutch demo that was requested. We can also finish the rear brake repairs I've started (sticky brakes leading to need to replace rotor and possibly caliper or mastercylinder). The brake repairs are secondary, if there's time or someone wants to see it done that's fine otherwise let's help those who need a specific project.

[graydude]

The 18th works for me. I'll have containers available for oil changes. I'm set up for most items except I don't have a lift or an air impact wrench. I have the air so if someone thinks they will need one they will have to bring it. I have torque wrenches and a manual as well. I'll provide the lunch and beverages. I'm looking forward to it!

Todd

[strsout]

Ken,
12th is fine for me and my place would be available
3 car's garage, no air conditioning on it (sorry :( ).
I do not have many tools and any air tools or lift. So keep it in mind.

I will not be able to go on 18th.

Malcolm Smith Motorsports
7563 Indiana Ave. Riverside CA 92504
Phone: 951-687-1300 Fax: 951-687-3819
is open Sundays from 10:00AM - 6:00PM
They are one of the worst dealers, but is close by (about 10 miles each way).

Having dshealey on this service would be a great plus... can you make it David?


I can provide few 1 gallon juice plastic cans for oil change and if someone tells me what else, I can try to provide too. Please just give me a list and I can work on it.

What time would be a good time to start?

and if the weather says rain. Are we still going?

[mjordans2000]

Malcolm's open on Sunday? Wow, that's handy. Do they have a good selection of buckets for the valves in stock?

[strsout]

Hi people!
are we going to have it on 12th or 18th?

[Jriverside]

Hi guys count me in for the 18th. Jim

[meese]

I think we decided on both, Elton. The 12th at your place and the 18th at Todd's. We should pick a time to start, then start two separate signup lists (for each date) so we know who's coming and what they want to work on (or just watch).

[RaffyK]

I might come down for one of these. Possibly the 18th since I have to be in San Diego for work on the 20th in the morning.

[strsout]

Hei Raffy,
try to be on the 12th :) :)

Well, since we are deciding on that, I would like to know what should I provide. (sorry... first timer)
The time could be anytime after 7:00AM
Should we open a new thread, one for each party, and start filling up the names?

[meese]

Should we open a new thread, one for each party, and start filling up the names?Yes. I'd suggest at start time of around 9, though if someone wants to show up earlier or later, that's OK too.

[dshealey]

I think we decided on both, Elton. The 12th at your place and the 18th at Todd's. We should pick a time to start, then start two separate signup lists (for each date) so we know who's coming and what they want to work on (or just watch).

I am not sure I will make either one of the service parties. :( When I started out to work this morning, my 525i started, then immediately stopped. Tried starting it, sounded like it had lost compression. I assumed the worst, timing chain. I came home today at lunch and started checking it out. Pulled the valve cover, cam timing seems to be just fine, and I made a tool to check the Vanos unit, it is working just fine too. Checked compression, and found three cylinders 110-120 (a little low), but the other three only 70-85! I am pretty stumped right now trying to figure out what could have gone wrong so suddenly, with no warning.

I may be pulling the head if I don't come up with something else to check over the next couple days. Looks like I may be busy working on a BMW, but not a K1200LT like I had wanted to. :mad:

[mjordans2000]

Sorry to hear that Dave, hope it works out well.

For those planning to participate on the 18th we need to know what projects we will be working on. Also, with Dave's availibility in doubt we need to make sure we have enough collective experience present to make this a success. If you'd like to help out with the wrenching let us know what projects you're comfortable supervising or assisting with,

Michael

[meese]

Sorry to hear about your troubles, David. I'd offer to come by your place on the 18th and help, but I'll be out of town by then. Good luck with it.

[OKUIII]

If I find a windscreen adjustor and new unit I will be there. The 18th is fine now. Can't ride with the adjuster.too much mvement and vibration.

OKU

[meese]

There were some partial windshield adjustment assemblies at Beemerboneyards.com. Not a complete setup, but depending on what parts you need that may help.

[BEhrler]

I am pretty stumped right now trying to figure out what could have gone wrong so suddenly, with no warning.

Any bubbles in the radiator when you're kicking it over?

[strsout]

Hi David,
sorry to ear about your 525i.
Actually, if you find what would be the issue, let us now.
I have one and would be nice to be prepare for something like it. After all my has 180K+ miles on the clock :)

[dshealey]

I am pretty stumped right now trying to figure out what could have gone wrong so suddenly, with no warning.

Any bubbles in the radiator when you're kicking it over?

If it would run, even roughly, that would be one of the first things I would check.

Gonna check things externally that would cause the engine to stop and not start, fuel pressure, ignition system fuses/relays etc.

I feel it is very likely I will be pulling the head this weekend though. When the engine stopped, and I tried to re-start it, It sounded VERY different from normal starting, at first I thought the starter motor was spinning but not engaged to the engine. Had the wife try it while I watched, the engine was spinning, but seemingly with low compression. That is why I thought I may have had a broken timing chain. That was not the case however. Now I am thinking blown head gasket. I do have two adjacent cylinders with low compression, which is a good indicator of the gasket between them blown out. But there is one cylinder with low compression between two good ones, more of a concern.

[BEhrler]

If it would run, even roughly, that would be one of the first things I would check.

Gonna check things externally that would cause the engine to stop and not start, fuel pressure, ignition system fuses/relays etc.

I feel it is very likely I will be pulling the head this weekend though. When the engine stopped, and I tried to re-start it, It sounded VERY different from normal starting, at first I thought the starter motor was spinning but not engaged to the engine. Had the wife try it while I watched, the engine was spinning, but seemingly with low compression. That is why I thought I may have had a broken timing chain. That was not the case however. Now I am thinking blown head gasket. I do have two adjacent cylinders with low compression, which is a good indicator of the gasket between them blown out. But there is one cylinder with low compression between two good ones, more of a concern.

Is it possible that the timing chain just slipped one tooth only?

[graydude]

I'm sure you've looked but have you pulled the oil cap to check for antifreeze gunk on the bottom of the cap? I've never heard of a head gasket just blowing. They usually start to leak as they breakdown and the coolant being under higher pressure can find it's way from the water jacket to the crankcase oil.

[dshealey]

Is it possible that the timing chain just slipped one tooth only?

No, I turned the crank to TDC, and the cams are aligned perfectly. There are squares on the rear of the cams, and align at right angles to the top of the head (very similar to the LT cams), mine are correct, perfectly square.

[dshealey]

I'm sure you've looked but have you pulled the oil cap to check for antifreeze gunk on the bottom of the cap? I've never heard of a head gasket just blowing. They usually start to leak as they breakdown and the coolant being under higher pressure can find it's way from the water jacket to the crankcase oil.

No sign of water/antifreeze in the oil at all.

I had a friend with a 525i, he had nearly 200,000 miles on it, and one of the head bolts broke, blew the head gasket. Going to check my head bolts next.

I will likely pull the head Saturday and see just what the heck is going on in there. If no major problems I will just do a valve job on it, maybe even pull the pistons and ring it. Worried that I will pull the head and find something more serious though. These engines are known for 200,000 mile plus life before major work needed. Of course I also had to put pistons in my LT at 100,000 miles, so maybe I am just holding my mouth in the correct shape. :D Seems I am contracting BMW mileage norms. Sure hope the 740iL does not do this to me! That fine beast is more expensive to fix!

[BEhrler]

No sign of water/antifreeze in the oil at all.

I had a friend with a 525i, he had nearly 200,000 miles on it, and one of the head bolts broke, blew the head gasket. Going to check my head bolts next.

I will likely pull the head Saturday and see just what the heck is going on in there. If no major problems I will just do a valve job on it, maybe even pull the pistons and ring it. Worried that I will pull the head and find something more serious though. These engines are known for 200,000 mile plus life before major work needed. Of course I also had to put pistons in my LT at 100,000 miles, so maybe I am just holding my mouth in the correct shape. :D Seems I am contracting BMW mileage norms. Sure hope the 740iL does not do this to me! That fine beast is more expensive to fix!

It's hard for me to believe that your BMW won't run with 70 lbs. of compression. It doesn't seem that long ago that 70 lbs. was normal. There has to be something else wrong. I'm assuming that yours is a computer controlled model. Have you checked the on board computer for read outs. With all the electronic stuff needed to run cars today it's a nightmare. Give me a set of points and a carburetor and I can make it run. However, with all the computer controlled ignitions, fuel injections, etc. I just close the hood and tow it to the dealer.

[dshealey]

It's hard for me to believe that your BMW won't run with 70 lbs. of compression. It doesn't seem that long ago that 70 lbs. was normal. There has to be something else wrong. I'm assuming that yours is a computer controlled model. Have you checked the on board computer for read outs. With all the electronic stuff needed to run cars today it's a nightmare. Give me a set of points and a carburetor and I can make it run. However, with all the computer controlled ignitions, fuel injections, etc. I just close the hood and tow it to the dealer.

I did check for codes, none stored. That really surprised me.

Yeah, I know it should run, even if roughly. I just have not had time to get into it to see what else is keeping it from starting. I did check to see if the fuel pump worked when I got home tonight, if the relay is jumped it runs. Now to check pressure, then see if it runs during starting attempts.

Checking for ignition is considerably harder, since there is a coil pack on top of each spark plug. Cannot just pull a spark plug wire and see if there is spark like on most engines. BMW always has a "better" way. :D

I was hoping to really get into it Saturday, but now they are calling for RAIN! In Southern California of all places. :D

[meese]

I was hoping to really get into it Saturday, but now they are calling for RAIN! In Southern California of all places. :DYou could always come play with us, David. We'll be inside. :D

[strsout]

I was hoping to really get into it Saturday, but now they are calling for RAIN! In Southern California of all places. :D

David,
inside my garage will not be raining... :) :) :) how about that?

[pitvipersnake]

Guys,
I would love to show up at one of these (maybe both) besides I noticed my clutch slipping yesterday, interested to know if anyone has done one of these themselves @50K maybe it is time for me to buy the right wrenches and do more than just the oil changes....
Sean

[meese]

Hey Sean,

Service parties usually come about when someone needs to do service, and decides to invite a few friends over. Or their bike is due for a service, but they don't have the skills, space, or tools for the job so they solicit help. So they tend to be kind of random, depending on who needs what and if folks can agree on a date and place.

Ad for the cutch replacement, it is possible to do it at home, but it is a major job. Take a look at some of the pics in this thread (http://www.bmwlt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=19720) to see what you may be getting yourself into. Then decide if it's worth your time and frustration, or if it might just be easier to write a check . . .

[mjordans2000]

Sean, it may well be one of us could help out. It would be a good time to fill in your profile so we know who you live near,

Michael

[tbarstow]

We can make the 18th. I just completed my 24k, but still need to change coolant. I'll hold off on changing my clutch fluid until then. Other than that, I can help to get people through the brake fluid change, valve check, shocks, and various other farklization.

[strsout]

We can make the 18th. I just completed my 24k, but still need to change coolant. I'll hold off on changing my clutch fluid until then. Other than that, I can help to get people through the brake fluid change, valve check, shocks, and various other farklization.


Did you guys are aware that this service party thread is the one for March 2006 right?

So, are we planing another one this year? for the same dates?

:)

I would like to show up (or host).

[sorchilla]

I'm about due for a 24K Service on My 05. Also not very mechanically inclined but willing to learn with proper supervision. Let me know the date and if anyone is willing to show me the how to's! Doug

[meese]

Sound like there's some interest in holding another SoCal Service Party soon. May I suggest starting another thread to avoid confusion? Then you guys can work out the dates, location, and attendees.

[Jriverside]

I need to replace my throttle cables. If we are having a service party I could use the help. Jim

[pitvipersnake]

I thought I had that stuff filled out. I am here in Lake Elsinore. Yeah I got a price from Irv's today of $650 parts and $700 labor... might just let them take care of the big stuff. I just hate to go in and find three more things and get out of there for $3000 and the bike is only worth about $6500 nowdays....

[zippy_gg]

Yeah I got a price from Irv's today of $650 parts and $700 labor... What are you replacing for that kind of money???

[strsout]

Hello friends!
this thread is growing and people are asking me if I will be hosting the Service party as I told... on Sunday...

It was last year... any one notice ! :)
As Ken mention, we should open a new thread and I will do it right now.
So far we have NO dates for 2007 service party. :)

That was interesting... the thread was resurrected exactly one year later :)