M695 15k + cam timing + nichols flywheel report

[BK_856er]

Just had Nichols Mfg do the 15k service on my '07 M695.

Dealer previously replaced both heads at about 5k due to the melting paint issue.  When the orignal heads came off the guides were already shot, so instead of installing the new heads that came with the same type of guide, they had upgraded guides pressed into the new heads.  At the dealer 7.5k service they didn't even check the valve clearance since the heads were so new.

Fast forward to today and 15k miles in the hills.  All the guides are good.  Three broken half-rings.  Three clearances needed adjustment.  Compression 180/185.

In addition to the 15k service, they set the cam timing, tweaked the DP ecu trim and installed a light aluminum flywheel.

Runs friggin awesome!  The flat spot I always had at about 6.5k rpm is gone and the power delivery is just so smooth and linear all the way up the rev range.  The flywheel is really sweet.  No problems with idle or takeoff, perhaps a little more low frequency vibe on the freeway, but nothing irritating at all.  Clutchless shifting is smoother.  Engine braking is less abrupt.  I swear that the bike changes directions a little faster.  Great combination.  I got back a better running and more responsive monster.  Wish that I had done it sooner!

BK

[scduc]

So as far as the engine braking goes, you say less? I really want to do this mod, but I'm afraid that the off throttle will lurch me forward too much. As it is right now, when I get off the throttle, I nose dive. Probably a suspension thing, but I dont want to make it worse.

[Spidey]

He said it was less abrupt, not that it was less.  Note that he had more work done than just a lightened flywheel added.   A lightened flywheel--on its own--means MORE engine braking.  Here's a more lengthy discussion:

http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=12714.0

[junior varsity]

I too think the lightened flywheel makes downshifts more pleasant, not as jerky, but provides a whole lot of engine braking

Glad you've had great experiences both with Nichols and the flywheel

[rule62]

Just had Nichols Mfg do the 15k service on my '07 M695.

I swear that the bike changes directions a little faster. 

+1

Less rotating mass.  Had the same effect on my 620.  It's not your imagination.  An unexpected benefit.  As far as I'm concerned, the lightened flywheel is the best bang-for-buck.  Especially for our small displacement motors

[WetDuc]

Dealer previously replaced both heads at about 5k due to the melting paint issue. 

What were you noticing?

[BK_856er]

What were you noticing?

...melted paint.  Literally.

BK

[WetDuc]

Are you referring to the silver paint on the cylinders and header clamps or something else?  My cylinders and cooling fins are starting to get really discolored, and I wasn't sure if that is what you were talking about.

[junior varsity]

Browning or discoloration is pretty normal as dirt and grime get 'cooked' on. The melting paint is more than just a change in the engine color over time.

The header pipes themselves, as well as the clamping rings are unpainted. You could always paint them if you wanted, but you'd be best served getting them ceramic coated.

[WetDuc]

Is there a known way of getting the cooked grime off my cylinders so they look shiny again?  I tried elbow grease and WD40, but got nowhere.

[junior varsity]

simple green, regular cleaning, in moderation you might use brake contact cleaner (beware the rubber and painted parts)

citrus orange engine cleaner.

You could also just chalk it up to character a bike develops that is well used. bikes weren't made to be pristine, they were made to be ridden. art belongs in museums, bikes in garages.

[Popeye the Sailor]

Is there a known way of getting the cooked grime off my cylinders so they look shiny again?  I tried elbow grease and WD40, but got nowhere.

I know of no way to clean a motorcycle