TOPIC: Another basket case project, but with potentially a different end goal!

Looking pretty spiffy there Mister.

Will you be refacing the valves and seats? Replacing the valve seals at the very least and lapping the valves. The seals are subject to a lot of heat due to the minimal amount of oil circulating around the valve stems due to the shim bucket arrangement so the heat really can't get away from the valve seals.

All done already... seats done, valves lapped and new seals inserted. Also head head and tub faces have been skimmed.

Just awaiting the piston rings and gasket set from Japan, and in the meantime will continue cleaning other covers for grey paint.

Also I have just reviewed the procedure for crank case split acc to the manual.... this is definitely NOT something I will be able to do myself, so hunt is on for a competent bike mechanic brave enough to tackle this task.

Paul

I was going to ask for the valve seats as well. So, a machine shop did them? I see you used the original valves.

Looks great! We don't have Simoniz paints here unfortunately, and I've heard a lot of good about it. I am going to put together an engine from scratch, from spare parts and a some that I will need to collect over time. I got an engine case which is finally clean and I'm going to paint - empty right now. Although it will be in reverse, it would be great to see step by step if you were splitting the cases. I am sure you want to put your engine together much sooner, but if you have lots of time I will be doing a walk through of my progress.

Did you use Viton Valve seals (do they even make them for the 1300?)

Yes, a machine shop did the valves and the skimming. I put in the new seals.

Yes, Viton ones... :https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/12-PACK-JSP-Kawasaki-VITON-Valve-Oil-seal-92049-016-RV37129-5-Motorcycle-ATV/253405182637?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

Unfortunately before I joined the forum so no pics but reasonably straightforward.

Yes I am keen to get the engine running ASAP, but determined to do it right so it may take a while. If I can find a mechanic who allows me to help I’ll document the proces but you have seen my garage, I can’t do that myself.., and after the oven debacle I am loath to ask if I can use the dining table!

You certainly don't need a big space to break the engine apart. Given the choice, I would prefer a 3ft x 3ft table in the middle of a room to split the engine with the ability to get around the table. In a nutshell, pull the engine out and flip it up side down on a worktable, remove all of the casing bolts, split the lower half off of the engine and do what you have to do.