Remove head without disturbing base gasket ?

[rickm]

1981 Z1000J
I will shortly need to get my valves stems skimmed to enable me to get adequate clearance as a couple are on the smallest shims already and the others are getting there.
Back in the day I would strip this engine and remove barrels etc without much fuss, but I'm wondering whether I would actually need to remove the barrels and could get away without disturbing the base gasket if I'm careful ?
Is that just a stupid idea that would result in oil pi$$ing out everywhere once rebuilt !

[Ultim8pc]

Usually you can, but you won't know until you do it.

[rickm]

Thanks for that.
So it's a bit of a gamble then but not out of the question !

[Bill P]

I've managed it a few time's no probs but as the man said you won't know till you've tried sadly

[rickm]

Thanks, it's good to know that it can be done if you're careful.

Can anyone recommend somebody to do the head work, preferably not too far from North Birmingham.
I need the valve tips skimmed and was thinking about some porting to improve gas flow, although not sure whether it's worth it if everything else is standard (although I may go big bore at some point).

[zed1015]

was thinking about some porting to improve gas flow, although not sure whether it's worth it if everything else is standard

Correctly done porting will make a worthwhile difference even on a stock engine.

[rickm]

Can anyone recommend someone nearish to the West Midlands?

[rickm]

OK, how about someone anywhere in the country who can do head work (valve stems and gas flowing) ?
There must be folk on here who do this stuff properly ?

[Bill P]

How about Buzzard , think he trades as Buzzwork's. Rebuild's Z1's .
Did me a fantastic job on a rattly GS1000S clutch basket to.
He's down in Kent somewhere i seem to remember. Advert maybe in the club mag to i think.

[Bill P]

Just had a quick look you can find and message him in the Owner's club member's list

[rickm]

Thanks Bill
I believe he’s based in N London, but is pretty busy.
I’ll check him out.

[needaz1100r]

Thanks Bill
I believe he’s based in N London, but is pretty busy.
I’ll check him out.

He's in S. West London, Teddington.

Highly recommended.