I'm sleepy too, but here is some more.
As you disassemble things, keep all of the individual valve train pieces segregated from each other. Apparently it is the smart thing to do, to put them back together with the pieces they started with.
Do you know what parts you will need? Per side:
2 small o-rings for the top cylinder studs
1 large o-ring for the cylinder base (skirt)
2
R65 specific pushrod tube rubbers
1 head gasket
1 valve cover gasket, if needed.
If you haven't renewed your carb-to-head rubbers that you can remember, replace them - they are cheap. And make a note of it in your log book. My "log book" until last year has always been the parts order invoice with a date and mileage on it. I am changing my ways.
Have you been checking your valve clearances on a regular basis, and keeping a log of adjustments needed? At 50k you should be all right, but you never know. Always check the valve clearance BEFORE adjusting them, so you know how much it has changed since your last adjustment (check your log book...). If the gap (esp the exhaust) is getting smaller regularly, you will be looking at a valve job soon. Ignored valve recession leads to very expensive repairs later. Not to mention towing charges, and disappointment in general.
Clean all mating surfaces thoroughly. You can probably get by with out using any gasket sealer anywhere. It is especially hazardous around the top studs, where oil is pumped to the top end for lubrication.
Do you have a torque wrench? Do you have a owners manual? The values and tightening pattern are in that book. It is available from any dealer - special order. 01 41 9 798 291 1979-84 R65 $22.95 (from
Capital Cycle).
Well, that is a start. Don't buy your exhaust nut wrench on eBay. That is the expensive route.
Ed Korn has about the best price, and is a great guy to deal with.
EXHAUST NUT WRENCH R68 R69 R69s and all AIR COOLED TWINS to 1995
For exhaust systems with the finned aluminum nut holding the pipe onto the head. It is about 2 x 4.75” (50 x 120mm), compact enough to be carried on the bike. Used with a 1/2” ratchet, a torque wrench, or in a pinch, the horror, the horror, a hammer. Renewing the anti-seize on the nut threads occasionally is a good idea..$34 (1 lb)As Ed says, don't forget the anti-seize on reassembly!
