Motorcycle Repair: Kawasaki KX60 Reed Valve Holder leaking cracking, kawasaki kx60, threebond 1104

Question
Hi Terry,
We have a 1998 KX60 Kawasaki
The 12023 HOLDER-VALVE,REED  (12023-1019  1   $33.73) appears to be leaking and cracking.  Can I just change this part or do I need to then change many parts around this part (gaskets, reed valve, etc) once I change the Reed Valve Holder?   Don't want to open a can of worms by removing the Reed Valve Holder expecting to just replace that, then have to start messing around with a whole lot of other parts!

Thanks,
Dave

Answer
Hi Dave,
You should inspect the reeds for cracked or missing petals, occasionally one will break and needs replaced. For a thorough inspection you will need to remove the reed cage (valve ass'y - reed). You can purchase just the reeds,(Kaw P#12022-1013)if needed. There are some things to consider when disassembling the unit. What is the overall condition of the machine? Racing bikes are often abused and ran to near their death before any work is done. If it's good to excellent condition you want to keep it that way probably, if it's fair to poor then you may be more inclined to cut corners.
1. You want to be sure and clean the outside well, you don't want any dirt or foreign materials entering here.
2. If you have to replace one or both reeds be sure to use thread lock (loctite blue 242 or equiv) on the screw threads holding the reed petals/stops in place.
3. The gaskets may be reused if they are not badly damaged, if they tear a bit use a clean finger and push the material back down carefully, don't remove any of it and apply a very thin layer of ThreeBond 1104 or 1194 to one surface just before you reassemble it, this will seal it again. (Unfortunately this will also make it more difficult to get apart next time) If all the other parts are in good condition there is no reason to replace them. If you need reeds or other parts the new gaskets are recommended.
Take care and happy riding,
Terry.