We’re kicking off our Airhead Maintenance 101 series with re-torquing the head nuts and setting the valve clearances. Our host makes (and explains) a common mistake, so be sure to check out that section of the video for the details.

This series is meant for riders new to Airheads who may not have a lot of mechanical knowledge. In many cases, you’ll be learning right along with our host! The process shown in this video applies to BMWs from the 1970s and possibly the early 1980s and beyond. CHECK YOUR SHOP MANUAL FOR DETAILS associated with your particular motorcycle. Part numbers and prices are based on BMW’s parts list as of August 2025.

Tools needed:

• • Torque wrench!

• • 14 and 15mm sockets + driver

• • 6″ extension for socket driver

• • 10mm wrench

• • TWO 12mm wrenches

• • Feeler gauges: 0.15mm and 0.20mm

• • Small flathead screwdriver

• • Airhead exhaust pipe nut wrench (optional)

Parts/supplies needed:

• • Valve cover gaskets (one for each side)
    BMW p/n 11 12 1 338 426 Gasket – Asbestfrei, $9.60 x 2

• • Very fine sandpaper or Scotch-Brite pad

• • Contact or carb cleaner

• • Copper anti-seize paste (if removing exhaust pipe nuts)

• • Catch pan for small amount of oil

• • Rags for cleaning up

Euro MotoElectrics sell a silicone gasket that you could consider reusable, or at least able to be used more than once. They cost $11.60 each ($2 more than the paper gaskets). I have not used them, but they do exist.

Unlike other MOA Garage videos, we provide torque values here because they’re unlikely to change – they’ve been in place for 50 years or more at this point, so we feel pretty confident stating them. Having said that, you should always look up the torque values appropriate for your specific motorcycle. There is some variance between models and even model years, so while the torque values provided here definitely apply to a 1976 R 90/6, they may or may not apply to your motorcycle. ALWAYS USE A TORQUE WRENCH!

This video series is made possible by Morton’s BMW in Spotsylvania, Virginia. Help support your local BMW motorcycle dealer! Find out more about Morton’s BMW at mortonsbmw.com.

Thank you for visiting the MOA Garage. If you’re an MOA member in Virginia and would like to see your bike featured in an MOA Garage video, contact us through the MOA website.