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| MBP Valve Collets | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Although portrayed as some sort of highly technical and difficult precedure, checking and setting the valves on a Ducati 2V motor is just not that difficult. Rebuilding a carburetor is definitely more involved. We all put off checking our valves due to either the expense or the hassle factor of getting the tank and valve covers off and trudging through the procedure. That's why I like the concept of the MBP collets so much. When I did my first Elefant valve check I noticed that the split rings had been work hardened and were smaller than when new. I knew that they would probably retain their current dimensions due to the work hardening. But in checking around I heard that there would still be enough clearance in the groove to allow a very slight movement which could allow them to become pulverized and distintegrate. So, like everyone else I put in some new split rings and changed out a couple of shims and went on my way. Then I heard about the MBP units and thought maybe someone had dealt with the problem correctly and sure enough they have. The MBP collets replace the stock split rings that locate the shim on the valve stem. They have a much improved shape and are made from a much harder material. Once installed, the valve train has a hardened valve stem, a hardened and ground shim and a hardened collet (surface hardness of 85 RC) holding the shim in place. Wear will be at a minimum for something close to 20,000 miles in normal street use. It is recommended that the valves be checked again at 18,000 miles after the MBP install but if you're paying for the labor that means you saved about $300 at the 6,000 and another $300 at the 12,000 mile valve check interval. There is a fairly straightforward video available from ProItalia that walks you through setting your valves. Alternatively you could obtain these and have your mechanic install them. A must have in my book, |
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