Head Retorque

Hi Guys
With a composite head gasket fitted what is the recommended retorque time/distance after rebuild??

Many different opinions on this. But the bottom line is these gaskets DO crush and you gotta keep on top of them and keep re torqueing until it’s no longer necessary.

Over torqueing by 5 lbs or so early on reduces this a lot though. I’ve done that without issue. In fact, my theory is this is what the factory did!

When I built it with stock settings my torque sequence was something like this:

1. After first start up and run, without riding.
2. After first short ride
3. After 100 miles
4. After 250 miles
5. After 500 miles
6. After 750 miles
7. After 1000 miles

Thanks Eddie, sounds good to ne

First start and warm up on stand
100 miles
1000 miles

I keep re torquing the head until the gasket does not crush anymore. I never had a problem doing it that way.

ELLIS

I don't torque wrench anything. Just by feel. It's learned. But yes the head gasket needs tightening up if new , periodically. I do it 3 X , then worry about all the other thingys.

I just did my 1000 mile retorque (35 & 25ft.lb as per Nigel #2 above) - only 4 moved and all of those by 30-45 degrees - the two in front of the spark plugs and the two underneath the exhaust ports - I guess these are the hottest?

The first warrantee service interval on a new Norton was at 500 miles. I suspect that that's when a dealer would torque the head though I don't have the service info (I do have the reminder coupons though). I wonder if the factory torqued them after the initial road test or if a dealer would do it after uncrating a new machine.

500 miles won't cut it. Mine began to weep oil almost immediately when new. I have no leaks now with the flame ring gasket - no sewing thread but I do use Permatex Copper Spray-a-Gasket. Last time i retorqued after 1st start, 5 miles, 50, 200, 500 and 1000, engine cold. Excessive yes, but so far so good. I can retorque it with the tank on so not a big deal.