Exhaust Butterfly Valve - Exhaust Valve - Exhaust Flapper - Sticking or Seized Valve - BMW R1250GS/A

[@bravokiloromeo1]

Finally! A credible, detailed explanation of the exhaust flapper mystery! Thank you for making the motorcycle world a better place!

[@justthewayitis]

Hello BKR, good morning and thank you for your feedback 🙋🏻‍♂️

[@petrus0002]

totally agree

[@justthewayitis]

👍🙋🏻‍♂️

[@stelios_poulman]

What a fantastic video! Everything explained so clearly and in such detail that even I got the confidence to check and lubricate the exhaust valve on my 10-year old GS. Thank you so much!

[@justthewayitis]

Thank you 🙏 I’m glad so many owners have enjoyed this video it took quite a while to put together. Have fun with your valve Best wishes Carl

[@dawgdawg4037]

Ya great but where is that copper anti seize available in the USA?

[@justthewayitis]

I’m sure you can find something similar in the USA 🇺🇸

[@palilaci]

This is the best video I've ever seen on KZbin! You show everything in detail and I like how you explain the connections. It helped me a lot to clean the exhaust valve on my Aprilia Caponord. Thank you very much for speaking English so beautifully and clearly. I speak a little English, but I understood this clearly! Greetings from Hungary and thank you!

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Palilaci, thank you for your great feedback 🙏👍, it’s great to hear viewers enjoy the time I spend making these videos. The Caponord is a lovely bike, lucky you 👍 Best wishes Carl

[@martin9756]

Your production and detail is top class - riveting to watch and learn from. Thanks for taking the time to make these videos.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Martin, thank you 🙏

[@debbiemartin2849]

Wow. I felt like this was a classroom. I learnt so much more than any other channel. Truly a master glass. The best instructor on you tube. Now subscribed.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Debbie, thank you for your feedback, great to hear so many viewers appreciate the videos, thanks for taking the time to share. Regards Carl

[@jeffarnold9957]

Very informative and as a non technical person I could understand more clearly the what's and why's of this subject which until now had been very confusing. Thank you, from an R1250RT owner.

[@justthewayitis]

Good evening Jeff, thank you for the feedback, much appreciated. Kind regards Carl

[@paulmsheehan]

The best "how-to" and "how it works" videos I have seen. So thorough and informative. Visuals and sound quality superb.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Paul, thank you your feedback is much appreciated Carl 🙋🏻‍♂️

[@jedleach7018]

Hi Carl, just like to say thanks for saving me a bunch of money. I had an engine fault which Ocean BMW cleared saying it was due the sticking valve a replacement would be £1,600 as it includes the catalytic converter. When riding home engine fault came back on. So I watched your video, my valve was seized solid, followed your instructions, valve now free. Turned on the ignition engine fault still on, started the engine fault cleared. 👍🏍

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Jed, that’s great news, thank you 👍. Now the valve is free, you might want to check and lubricate it in 6 months to make sure it remains working freely. Carl

[@hgm8337]

@@justthewayitis or rip it out and fit a'flapper delete sensor?

[@justthewayitis]

That’s about option 😊

[@justthewayitis]

Yes that’s also an option which many owners do once warranty has expired. 👍

[@charlesmize3941]

This was by far one of the best instructional videos I've ever seen on KZbin. Would absolutely love to see one on checking the valves (and adjusting) on that 1250 GS. Thanks so much for your hard work on this video.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Charles, once my warranty is out that’s exactly what I’ll be making 🙏, thank you Carl

[@jodkel]

Thank you very much. You have saved me a no doubt expensive trip to the garage to unfreeze what I found to be a seized valve as a result of your video.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Andrew, great news, glad it helped you 👍. Kind regards Carl

[@kinouillek]

Thanks a lot for your help. I had a message from my GS911 saying there was some fault with the exhaust valve… I opened it and sure thing it was all gross and rusted (I use my GS1250 offroad a lot). I used your video to figure out what happened and how to clean it all. Worked like a charm.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Kinouillek, glad to hear you have sorted out the problem 👍 and the video helped. Best wishes Carl

[@fotoeikenburg]

Looks like a ton of work you‘ve put into this video. And for those interested it seems like a detailed yet understandable explanation of some complicated details of an engine. A little bit too much for me, however I do wanto to complement you for the production of this video. Stay safe and enjoy!

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Peter, good morning and thank you for your feedback. Yes it’s a lot of work and it’s hard to find a balance between explaining things correctly and keeping viewers engaged. Best wishes Carl

[@joseenriquecastillo4662]

I would actually pay money for this man to adopt me

[@markwilliams8655]

You sir are an absolute marvel. The way you explain things so clearly, fully, and very carefully so it so understandable is absolutely remarkable. Thank you so much indeed.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Mark, good evening and thank you for your kind words 🙏 Carl

[@danylogie491]

I never saw such a fantastic video with a brilliant expert coach !! Congratulations Carl, fantastic job done !

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Dany, good morning and thank you 👍

[@Jotabe60]

Great material. Very detailed explanation. Thanks Professor.

[@justthewayitis]

@Jotabe60 Hi Joao, thank you 🙏

[@danydany6120]

You are a star, I have a BMW r1200rt 2015 model it has done 70000 miles and the exhaust flap was seized for a long time, I fixed it after watching your video, and it is working like new. Thanks for making this video.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Dany, that’s great news and I’m glad the episode helped you. Best wishes Carl 👍🙋🏻‍♂️

[@johnmiketripp]

Just wow. Great video. Totally agree with the corrosion assessment. I Worked at motorcycle shop in early 70’s and there was a bulletin that came out from the manufacturer to explain why so many mufflers were needing to be replace on nearly new bikes. Owners would wash there bikes or just start them and not allow exhaust to get up to a high enough temp to fully remove the interior condensation to be evaporated. Thanks again for the best series of videos on BMWs.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Mike, thank you 👍. Bike care is an important part as your probably well aware of from your time in the workshop. Glad you enjoyed the episode and have a great Sunday Carl

[@nschutten]

Most excellent! Very comprehensive and clear. Everything explained very well without overloading with unnecessary information. Best instructional video I have watched in a long time. Well done!

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Niels, thank you 🙏 for your feedback. Glad you enjoyed it Kindest regards Carl

[@pcat1378]

Outstanding video! I just had the engine warning pop up today and low and behold my valve had started to seize. Hour and a half later after watching this video all cleaned up and copper grease applied and all now works and code cleared itself 2019 GSA.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi P, that’s brilliant news I’m delighted subscribers and viewers are finding this and series helpful. Thank you for taking the time to leave a message 🙋🏻‍♂️ Carl

[@pcat1378]

@@justthewayitis Can't thank you enough

[@justthewayitis]

Your very welcome 🙏

[@DaveSutherland-xy9ov]

Excellent explanation of what, why and how - thank you. Just followed your lead in servicing my GS Adventure, I also had 4 years of an RT valve servicing. It occurred to me today - it can't really be carbon build up because the minimal lube I have to apply, even to a totally seized valve wouldn't have enough time to penetrate down to the inner shaft. It's got to be water based corrosion! Nice one.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Dave, thank you 🙏 much appreciate your feedback on the video. Glad you found it helpful. Best wishes Carl

[@trailsurfer4046]

R1250GS. During a trip to the North Cape, the message appeared on the display that we needed to go to a specialist workshop. The catalyst symbol then appeared on the display. I already knew this connection from your video and suspected that the exhaust flap could be difficult to move. We completed the trip without any intervention. At home, today, I was able to carry out maintenance on the exhaust flap. With the help of your instructions it was possible to do exactly that. Now it works again. Thank you very much for your extremely valuable tips.

[@justthewayitis]

Hello and good afternoon that’s great news you have managed to free off the sticking valve, it’s jolly expensive at the dealership so you’re probably very happy. Glad the video helped 🙏 a I’m pleased it’s helping the GS community. Best wishes Carl

[@trailingarm63]

This is a brilliant instructional video. Probably the best I've ever watched on KZbin. I've copper-slipped the butterfly valve twice now on my 2019 R1250RT. When it seizes again I'm going to remove the servo and fit the servo cheat (which I've just ordered). I was concerned whether the valve would stick open or closed, but after watching your video and studying the valve on my bike it seems that it sticks open rather than closed, which is fine by me. Cheers Bruce!

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Bruce, thank you for your feedback and glad you found the episode interesting. Yes delete module is a great idea 💡, have a great weekend Carl

[@Pi-mt2dj]

Rzeczowo i konkretnie przeprowadzony spośób naprawy -bez problemu sam zrobiłem z 100% efektem .

[@justthewayitis]

That’s great news, glad the video was helpful to you 🙋🏻‍♂️

[@bobpreston1347]

One of the very best explanations of this problem (mine is a 2015 RT). Will have another go at resolving this issue. (unfortunately Fermit is not available from Amazon.... or anywhere really)

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Bob, any good quality high temp versions would be fine to use, good luck 🤞 with your valve, Carl

[@marcodebeer759]

This is one of the most professional videos i have ever seen on You tube , thanks buddy well done greetings from South Africa.

[@justthewayitis]

Hello Marco and good evening SA, thank you for the feedback 👍, best wishes Carl

[@EllisBurton3339]

On the R18 if you disconnect the cable at the flap rotors leaving them attached to the servos it does not trigger codes you can loosely tie them up and run the bike , the service you have shown in this vid is so simple , try doing it on an R18 on the garage floor lovely lol

[@billw5231]

Awesome video, thanks so much for sharing! I have the exact same bike but 2021 model (21,000 miles). Mine was seized but you gave me the confidence to get it functioning again. Your disassembly and assembly details were spot on, cannot thank you enough. Definitely getting a splash guard like you have to protect it from the rear tire spray to keep it functioning.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Bill good morning and thank you for your message, very much appreciated 🙏. Glad you were able to sort out your EV problem. Best wishes Carl

[@ChrisRyan-w4z]

What a fantastic video. Very informative, easy to follow. you have made it seem quite simple for none technical people to follow. Many thanks Carl

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Chris, thank you 🙏

[@robertsamuel5869]

Thanks for this coverage . I've recently brought the GS1250 Exclusive. Re Keeping the bike clean my son would say I only ride to give me excuse to clean the Bike. I had heard of this flap causing a problem. Mindful when cleaning the bike I thought water could work its way down the exhaust pipe I fit a bung I constructed from dense foam kneeling pad whilst washing the bike. I use a blower to remove as much residue water, and take the bike for couple mile run to ensure it fully dry before its returned to the garage 🙂

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Robert what brilliant idea 💡 thank you sharing with other owners 👍. I wish you lots of fun your GS and thank you for the feedback on the video. Kind regards Carl

[@mmm-su9nq]

I'm not kidding. I feel like Carl hypnotised me to watch all his videos. I can't get enough. The man is a genius clear, plain speaking informative 👌 Will update you once I have done my gsa 1250 sticky valve But a big thank you Carl for the time & patience you have on doing all theese videos you have helped me so much ❤

[@justthewayitis]

Thats very kind of you to say that, I'm just pleased so many owners enjoy the videos. Good luck with your sticking valve, take it slow and you will be fine. Best wishes Carl

[@EdwardoJoyalinski]

Have a look at the old mechanic on KZbin, if you enjoy working on your own bike, he's amazing and down to earth.

[@justthewayitis]

@EdwardoJoyalinski yes he is great 👍

[@Bluoranges]

The best video I've seen in ages and I think you've just solved the mystery for me. Thank you.

[@justthewayitis]

Well you are very welcome, glad you enjoyed the video 🙏, now you have some maintenance to do 😊 Your welcome to share the video with your friends Best wishes Carl

[@commander_lard]

lovely job - great way to cut through all the speculation and actually test the operation and confirm real reason for the valve - have a R1250GSA so will focus more on keeping it in good working order than removing, thanks again for all the hard work on this!

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Larry, thank you 🙏 Best wishes Carl

[@TomNelsoninCowtown]

I see you reply to nearly every comment - no need in my case. I just wanted to offer sincere kudos: you are a natural at this! Please accept my commendation for both your content & delivery. The chapter breakdown you provided is an excellent 'extra effort' that adds even further value. tn

[@justthewayitis]

Thank you Tom, 👍 I try to reply to everyone because I appreciate the time they have taken to say hello or offer a comment / positive or negative. But I guess one day it won’t be possible if the channel keeps growing, but I’ll try to keep replying. Thank you again 🙋🏻‍♂️

[@beans4491]

Wowzers!…just found this….top class! Ive a puncture to take care of in the morning and whilst I’m there I’ll service the exhaust butterfly valve. Thanks a lot, so good and oh…you could be on the telly.

[@justthewayitis]

Have fun with your puncture repair, and the valve maintenence, regards Carl

[@rickdelmonte1682]

Thanks for another informative video. I removed the flapper valve from my 2016 R Nine T. It took about ten minutes. I saw no performance change, but the bike sounds great. An emotional bike like the R Nine T it needs a good sound, my R1300GS not so much.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Rick, sounds like you have had a successful weekend 👍 and I agree the R9T does deserve a boost 👍. Kind regards Carl

[@TonyBusaZZR]

Thanks for taking the time to do this video. My 50,000 mile 2016 GS still has the original flap valve & headers. The valve has never seized and is still as free as the day I bought the bike. Bike has been used in all weathers including salty roads. I can only assume that the reason for this is that I always start the bike after washing it and run it for 5 minutes or so before putting it away. I guess this is enough to evaporate and water that is sitting in the mechanism that could cause corrosion. It gets a coat of graphite lube every 12 months when I take the end can off to clean it but that's the only maintenance it gets. Maybe I've just been lucky?

[@justthewayitis]

Sounds like you look after your bike correctly 👍 and with your once yearly maintenance it sounds fairly perfect. Thank you for sharing your experience, I will help other owners I’m sure. Kindest regards Carl

[@AndrewSmith-hy8gl]

Thank you so much Carl, an absolutely fantastically helpful, informative and expertly produced Vlog. You have inspire me to do the exhaust butterfly valve maintenance on my BMW R1250GSA 😀👍👋.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Andrew, thank you for your feedback 👍, and have fun with your maintenance Carl

[@scott02464]

Great info Carl ! I deleted my flap actuator (before I saw this vid) not for any power or sound gains but simply because I read somewhere that if the valve seizes it could make the bike go into limp mode. Not wanting to be caught out or stranded anywhere I decided to just do away with the whole thing. So now it’s permanently in the open position and has the eliminator box plugged in for not warning lights 😊

[@justthewayitis]

Sounds like you have a good solution, good work 👍 and many happy trouble free months ahead. Carl

[@scott02464]

Thanks mate you too 👍 Have you ever had this happen to you before… I stopped at the fuel station, pulled up at the pump and mistakenly clicked into 2nd instead of neautral, released clutch not checking it was in N 😊 Bike stalled, filled it with fuel then went to start the bike up as normal and due to it stalling I threw a ‘brake light fault’ message up and hardly cranked the motor 🤦‍♂️ To the point where I thought the battery had run flat. After pushing it to the side of the petrol station forecourt and feeling like a total fool asking for a set of jump leads (for about 8 mins) I decided to give it 1 last final try it fired straight up as if there wasn’t anything wrong in the first place 😂 I’m more careful to check I’m in N now before dumping the clutch lol! It must have just needed a min to reset itself and teach me a lesson ha

[@justthewayitis]

That’s a new one to me, and thank you for sharing …. I will remember your experience and I’m sure others that read this will do too. I can imagine it was not much fun at the time…. lol we the local bike club were in tour in Norway last year, we stopped to fill up and one of the bikes wouldn’t start Panic set in…. For the owner But it turned out he had accidentally flicked the kill switch 😉 Our journey continued Carl

[@scott02464]

@@justthewayitis lol it’s nice when it’s something nice and simple like that (not fun at the time though hehe) Thanks again for taking the time to make your vids 👍

[@justthewayitis]

Thank you Scott 🙋🏻‍♂️

[@johnellis6383]

Thanks for the great video. I’ve fiddled about with the valve on my ‘23 BMW R9T…disconnected the cables at the control valve and left the actuator motor and cables in place. What I noticed was the throttle response was very jerky, while the ECM relearned its fuel trims (minus the back pressure of the valve.) That took about 10-15 miles. After that point, the engine felt a little quicker to rev from idle, but also felt flatter in the midrange. The sound quality changed, obviously, but not a huge amount. I noticed more pop/bang on deceleration and an increase of sound at cruise. It actually was slightly annoying to my ear. When I got home, I reconnected the cables to the valve spindle and it’s been like that ever since. I’m happy with the bike’s performance and am old enough to not need to make a bunch of excess noise riding around. Old age! FYI, you mention that disconnecting the cables at the valve (while leaving the actuator electronically connected) would cause a MIL and store a DTC. That was not the case with my 2023 model, which I assume to be Euro5. I live in the US, so mine may actually be built to a different North American specification? I don’t know. Anyway, thanks Carl, for this very detailed and informative video. 👍

[@justthewayitis]

Hello John and welcome to the channel, and thank you for your detailed experience with your particular bike / year model and location, I’m sure this will be of interest to other owners thinking about doing the same as you. As for no code being activated I’m surprised but each model by be different as well as yours being a North American version. But thank you for sharing I’ve learned something new 👍. Maybe bmw have made a change in the latest software, as so many owners have reported issues. ? As for noise, it’s a very individual thing, some want more, some are happy the way it is ( which I am ). Thank you for taking the time to share and comment Much appreciated Kindest regards Carl 🙋🏻‍♂️

[@justthewayitis]

Have you thought about the Weiser-Tech extreme EVO indicators for your R9T I’ve seen one in there workshop setup with them, and it looks stunning Carl

[@gibboian]

This is a great video and demonstrates the valve really well. My R1250RT had a sticking valve at 12k miles despite me riding it "enthusiastically"... Maybe it was due to corrosion (from washing?) however I don't have the inclination to strip and lubricate the valve every year (I do at least 12k mile pa). So I removed it and installed a healer. Very little cost and saves a whole pile of maintenance time. Bike runs great and I cant hear any increase in noise. Thanks for taking the time to research, film and explain this subject

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Ian, thank you for sharing, I hear a lot of RT owners have had valve issues so your solution seems like a logical step forward to not having issues. Well done 👍 Best wishes Carl

[@michaeldobson8859]

I dont think BMW has done a good job in designing the valve wiring and servo motor. It looks to me that they have exposed wiring and the servo to road salts and high heat zones which will not serve the servo motor a long life. The Multistrada modification Carl did is the real deal. It’s the most cost effective method of getting rid of the flapper but leaving the servo and valve shaft in place.

[@justthewayitis]

Yes, it was a simple but effective solution, that also gave a big benefit 👍

[@clifficus]

Same here, with a 2012 1200RT, got fed up with the sticking valve, binned it and fitted a Servo Buddy after extensive research on the net, never had any problems in 6 years and my GS911 never shows any fault codes, can’t tell any difference with it fitted but I don’t have to keep freeing it up.

[@inspectorclouseau3880]

Great Video Carl, I had this problem on my first GS and I managed to free the valve off with WD40, then I bought some high temperature grease and Graphine powder and coated the spindle inside and the spring mechanism. Worked fine after that.

[@justthewayitis]

Thank you 👍

[@karstenweide5731]

Hey, that was the first video of your channel I watched and I have to say it is really amazing. You did an excellent job explaining everything you did on the bike and you explained it on a understandable way. Maybe the video is a bit long, but it touched every important point and in addition you do not try to persuade everyone or convince them of your opinion. It is a really professional Video, great job! Thanks a lot :)

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Karsten, welcome to the channel and thank you for your feedback and kind words. Yes sometimes the videos are long, but I try to keep things simple so every one of all abilities can understand and follow along. This way everyone learns. Best wishes Carl Lg, Carl

[@TRONATHON888]

Thank you! I own a 2023 Gsa and noticed a pop in lower gears when initial twist of the throttle. I took it back to BMW and he was baffled after taking it for a test ride. No codes came up and redownloaded the setup. 2 weeks later he told me others mentioned it and its normal? I wasnt buying it and have owned several different motorcycles and never had this issue. So thankyou for a proper explanation.

[@justthewayitis]

Your very welcome 🙏

[@gnmurray5955]

Thanks Carl. I just checked my flapper valve as it had begun to squeak when I switched the ignition on first thing in the morning. It was actually very good and only needed a bit of lube (after 75,000kms). I found it very difficult to source a spray can of copper spray so I used nickel anti seize which from what I understand has generally a significantly higher resistance to high temperatures than copper. The nickel has seemed to work well.

[@justthewayitis]

Sounds like you captured it at the right time and found a great alternative to the high temp copper spray, well done !. Glad you found the video helpful and thank you for leaving a comment 👍, very much appreciated Kind regards Carl

[@06flhxharley]

Hello Carl, great video. I am a ex harley rider and never had to deal with this valve, i didn't even know my GS had one. Keep up the great work. Rick P Ontario, Canada

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Rick, thank you 🙏

[@DaveBoothroyd-ej5in]

Brilliantly explained - and filmed. Thankyou.

[@justthewayitis]

Thank you 🙏 Dave

[@correykeen2956]

Awesome video Carl. Learned a lot in this one...much like I do from all your videos.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Correy, thank you for feedback as always. it was a lot of fun putting this video together. Best wishes Carl

[@paulrichardson1906]

Absolutely fed up with mine. I’ve disconnected it and it makes no bloody difference whatsoever but it sounds better🤣👍

[@justthewayitis]

👍

[@trailsurfer4046]

In order to make the flap shaft movable again, it helps to adjust the limit stop so that the flap can be rotated further. This allows a rotation angle of approx. 180 degrees. The deposits in the upper bearing of the flap can be loosened more easily. The stop means the metal strip below. This can be carefully bent backwards with pliers. A few millimeters are enough.

[@justthewayitis]

Thank you 🙏

[@MV-XD2]

Excellent explanation and dispelling of the various forum myths. I had a GSA a few years ago, bought it used with under 6K miles whose flappy valve was seizes at handover. The stupid part of it all is that dealers will insist an entirely new exhaust is required and make no attempt to free the mechanism. Prevention is of course better than cure - especially as a new full exhaust system is about £1,500 now 😮

[@justthewayitis]

Yes the replacement exhaust is very expensive, their is a UK company that will perform a de-seizure process for GS owners and it’s only 100£ which is great value if it’s completely seized. But a little maintenance will help prevent it happening. Best wishes Carl

[@Simon-fm8yc]

They can jam that scam. I'm just waiting for my warranty to expire and I'm replacing the original system with something appropriate.

[@justthewayitis]

The early one’s had a section you could unbolt and remove, it’s a shame the new version need a complete new front pipe. Best wishes Carl

[@nikoscosmos]

​@justthewayitis have you got details of the company please Carl? I have performed the maintenance as discussed but I'm a pessimist! All the best from Griechenland.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Nick , good afternoon, sure it’s a uk company and they only charge 100£ ish Here is the link www.cymarcbikeparts.co.uk/seized-exhaust-butterfly-valve-service-53-c.asp Best wishes Carl 😉🙋🏻‍♂️

[@FrancescoManzini]

Great video! Congratulations! I’m going to switch to a OEM headers set without catalytic converter on my 2023 1250 GSA. I hope I’ll be able to detach and reconnect the cables of the valve without having any errors on the TFT.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Francesco, your plan sounds very exciting and a nice project to do on your 2023 GSA. Happy Easter Kind regards Carl

[@falkoseeland8515]

Vielen Dank für dieses ganz außergewöhnliche Video. Erstklassig

[@justthewayitis]

Vielen Dank und ich freue mich, dass es Ihnen gefallen hat. Lg Carl aus Hessen. 🙋🏻‍♂️

[@rolandcarlile9568]

My 17 plate gs went though two exhaust valves in time i had it ,bmw said its because i ride in the rain. Em .luckily under warranty, 21 plate bike never had a issue as i put a hugger type gauge that attracted to bottom on original gaurd by shock,stopped the dirt going out to the sides. My first one when took the cover off was coated in grime. All bmw has to do is use a better cover over the spring and valve, must cost them thousands in replacements on the later bikes. Thanks for doing the video as my other bikes have the exhaust valves ,so ill look at them in a different light now.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Roland, thank you for sharing your experience with your GS’s, sounds like a nice modification you have done 👍. Have a great weekend Kind regards Carl

[@mikedignum1868]

I had the problem in 3 of my BMWs (RS-RT &GS)...High-temperature grease and Graphine powder worked for me after a chat with the dealership.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Mike, glad to hear you found something that works for you 👍 thank you for sharing

[@lionelboutry7084]

Clear and precise as always… still enjoying my MTS and thinking I still need to change the gears and the exhaust valve… not DIY for me though…

[@justthewayitis]

Well it’s worth the effort and time, 👍

[@WalterCordone]

Amazing! Thank you for the technical talk, it has been very illustrative for me and you have really provided me with many interesting details!!! Thanks again

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Walter, thank you for your message it’s always nice to hear viewer’s feedback especially when they enjoy the video. Kind regards Carl

[@Alex-np6dg]

Hi Carl. Thanks for the brilliant step by step video. I have had BMWs since 2020, and to date, I have not had a failed valve. "Hopefully, I am not tempting fate." However, by following your step by step video, I will be able to do some preventative maintenance. I wonder if you would be able to cover another subject in your usual concise thoughtfull manner, and that would be lubrication of the drive shaft splines, front and rear.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Alex, it’s on my list of topics to cover in the future, thank you for taking the time to comment. Best wishes Carl

[@zain3094]

Hey Carl .. Thanks gazillions for sharing lotsof useful infos .. my appreciation from Malaysia . Keep it coming ! 🎉❤

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Zain, thank you 👍

[@muddyharbourrider7340]

Excellent first class presentation Carl. The stories and theories I’ve heard on what the valve is for ……🤔👍

[@justthewayitis]

Yes, lots of alternatives are talked about, so I thought it was time to share it from my perspective, Thank you 🙏 Carl

[@michielvandepol6765]

As always: a very informative video. Hats off for you, Carl!

[@justthewayitis]

Thankyou Michiel 👍

[@rustynorris7]

Howdy from Texas ! Love my 23 gsa bought in July ! Thank you Carl !

[@justthewayitis]

Hello Rusty, and hello Texas 🙋🏻‍♂️, welcome to the channel and I am pleased to hear you are enjoying your new GSA, lovely bike. Thank you for saying hello Carl

[@darcyh2889]

Congrats on a very detailed and informative article about restoring and maintaining your flapper valve. One piece of misleading information. Turning on your ignition with the valve actuating cables removed Will Not throw up a fault code. There is no position. Sensor on the valve which informs the ECU of whether or not it is moving. So long as the Stepper motor that controls the valve is plugged in, there won't be an issue.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Darcy, thank you for the feedback on the video and for sharing your experience with fault codes and disconnecting the cables 👍, much appreciated. Best wishes and have a great festive season ahead. Carl 🙋🏻‍♂️

[@Pyrrho_]

Nice explanation. Explains how arbitrary some of the Euro 5 rules are, and why a ECU tune is one of the best things you could do to your bike to remove such restrictions. Also, I have a R1250RS, so same engine as your GSA. Max RPM is 8750, not 7750 -- that's where the engine makes max HP, but not max RPM.

[@justthewayitis]

Thank you 🙏 And well spotted my mistake with max RPM, Carl

[@Life_a_bike]

I own a 2016 K50. Every 2500 miles stuck, it started from 13K miles. I just disconnected the cables, always open. No problem at all…

[@justthewayitis]

On the early bikes that’s a great solution 🙏🙋🏻‍♂️

[@MiguelKooreman76]

Would you say that’s not a good solution on a 2021 r ninet?

[@justthewayitis]

See my other reply

[@alexbradley9172]

Great video Carl. Keep them coming!

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Alex, will do !!!! Enjoy your Sunday, Carl

[@rumien1383]

Excellent video. Excellent channel. I’ll be carrying out this task this weekend, as I am currently experiencing this very problem. Thank you sir. 👏👏👏👏

[@justthewayitis]

Thank you 🙏 and good luck at the weekend 👍 Kind regards Carl

[@rumien1383]

Accidentally started bike with cables disconnected. What are the consequences?

[@justthewayitis]

You might be ok, just finish the rest of the cleaning and reassemble… then go for a ride and see if you have any messages on the dashboard. I think you might be ok. Carl

[@rumien1383]

@justthewayitis cheers Carl. Bike rides ok, no messages, but I have a notion that the cable is so tight that the valve cannot close fully.

[@justthewayitis]

Well you do have adjustment on the cables if your concerned

[@bobtaylor5263]

great video carl , my warning light came on its a 21 reg with 7000 miles and bmw assistance said its my exhaust flap has seized I have had to wait approx 1 month to get my bike booked in for repair with bmw which is this Wednesday I have been told they don't free them off under warranty but to replace the headers I will let you know the out come once I have got my bike back, I believe you can do a self check by taking the black cover off turn your ignition on and the flap should turn, thanks for your info

[@justthewayitis]

Hello Bob, good hear it’s going in for repairs, I presume it’s still under warranty? Let me know how you get on. Kindest regards Carl

[@bobtaylor5263]

just a update after taking my bike to bmw about my exhaust flap seizing up. well they replaced the headers under warranty and was told this is a updated system and should require any maintenance so happy ending@@justthewayitis

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Bob, great news and glad to hear that after your long wait, your bike is now home. I was not aware that there is an updated downpipe, so thanks for letting me know. Have a good weekend ahead Ca

[@davidhankin9726]

Fantastic well put together video Carl and very helpful with lots of detail. Have got my copper grease spray and wire brushes for some fun in the garage this afternoon 😀. Thank you!

[@justthewayitis]

Hi David, have fun in your garage 😇 Kind regards Carl

[@brucebrown6597]

Your most informative video to date! Many thanks….!!

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Bruce, thank you 🙏

[@jonasfogelberg9300]

Great as always😊! Your videos are more like investigative Journalism.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Jonas, hello 🙋🏻‍♂️. Thank you for your feedback. Kindest regards Carl

[@bsidethecside2283]

At last a proper look at the issue, rather than all the conjecture. Think I have a job for a dull winter's day as well as probably getting a mud sling. Also, thanks for the heads-up for Cymarc doing the service - they're a good bunch turning out quality kit. I can see a synergy in your mindsets ;-). (Subscribed now!)

[@justthewayitis]

Hello and thank you for subscribing it really helps the channel grow. Yes the kit from Cymarc is good 👍 Have fun with your winter maintenance Kindest regards Carl

[@schemkesa]

Thanx again for clearing that up for once and for all.... I did buy a eliminator for my S1000XR but didn't install it, because there would be hardly any benefit and only more noise

[@justthewayitis]

Hello Antoine, thank you 🙏. The XR is a lovely bike and your probably right ! I think with a different exhaust might help but like you say it’s just going to be more noisy. Best wishes Carl

[@geraldfitzgibbon7428]

That was very good explation of the ex valve and how to clean it. Are u an instructor of mechanical teaching? I just subcribed cause it was very good and clear instruction. Thanks v much

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Gerald, thank you 🙏, well I have been working in the industry for a long time and educating, trying to keep complex processes simple. Thank you for subscribing Kindly regards Carl

[@BcDano139]

Nice work as per usual; much appreciated, Carl.

[@justthewayitis]

🙏🙋🏻‍♂️

[@a.c.e.7568]

Well done! One would think BMW would use materials that do not corrode or at least are slow to corrode especially in a heat environment. Something like a wiper motor shaft (stainless steel) running in a brass or bronze bushing.

[@justthewayitis]

Thank you 🙏

[@lestersmyth692]

Thank you, at last I finally understand the topic. Much appreciated 👍

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Lester, thank you for your feedback, glad you enjoyed the episode Have a great weekend Carl

[@dougturner370]

Superb technical information and video quality, thanks!

[@justthewayitis]

Glad you liked it! Carl 👍

[@jedleach7018]

Hi Carl, should have concentrated on your video you’ve answered all my questions looks like I’ve got some work to do

[@justthewayitis]

Ah, ok 👍

[@FREE_PUREBLOOD333]

Excellent video production, post production and clear information. Very professional. I will now subscribe to your channel after watching this video.

[@justthewayitis]

Thank you 🙏 Glad you enjoyed the episode Kindest regards Carl

[@slipthegreyhound]

Thanks Carl very informative video. Im going to get my mate to watch this, he's had many problems with this valve. I have a GS911 OBD tool which is handy for resetting those pesky fault codes. 👍

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Slip, yes quite a few folks have the GS911. Have a nice week ahead Carl

[@billymartinez4750]

Thank you, I learned a lot from this video.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Billy, glad you enjoyed it 🙏 Kind regards Carl

[@maurowind7617]

Thanks Carl, very very interesting video! Thanks for sharing your experiences! I'm still waiting for interesting videos! grazie!

[@justthewayitis]

Thank you 🙏 Best wishes Carl

[@robwojcik9224]

Another excellent video Carl, all makes sense. I'm so glad I don't wash my bike after every ride ;-)

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Rob, smile..... Thank you Carl

[@flexywing]

Great content as always, one thing I think it needed was a total cost of the bike with options you suggested Against what the "base" price is 😢

[@justthewayitis]

Hi FW, I thought about adding a page with a GS as I would like it, but I would need very deep pockets 🫣, plus my videos always end up long so I decided not to add another 5 mins about specification and prices. I’ll try to add this information in episode 4 Thanks for the suggestion 🙋🏻‍♂️ Carl

[@flexywing]

So sorry, this was supposed to be on your review of the GS1300, but I am sure you understood

[@justthewayitis]

Yeap... No problem 👍

[@MikeHarveyPhoto]

Very well put together video keep them coming

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Mike, thank you 👍 More to come as the channel grows…. Carl

[@davepyer]

Excellent video, and thanks for covering every base. 👍

[@justthewayitis]

Thankyou

[@IanLawrie-l9q]

An extremely interesting well narrated and filmed instruction film 👍👏👌

[@justthewayitis]

Thank you 🙏

[@DocMagoo]

Thanks for another informative video, well explained as always

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Doc, thank you 🙏

[@nycrea]

Great video, interesting and in-depth explanation.

[@justthewayitis]

Thank you 🙏

[@Skiamakhos]

I bought an Africa Twin pretty much this time last year & the first thing to go on it was the servo for the butterfly valve. I used the diagnostic tool to delete the fault, but it kept coming back every time I started the engine. A new servo would have cost me £450 + labour. I bought a Fuel Euro-5 certified exhaust that doesn't have the valve, a servo delete dongle, got the new exhaust installed & the servo replaced with the delete dongle for less than I'd have paid for a new servo. My reasoning: if as Fuel told me it wouldn't affect my Euro 5 status, it removes something that can go wrong again, and clears the check engine light so that when it lights up I know there's something actually the matter with it. The MOT regs are potentially less stringent than the law: “The exhaust system and silencer should be in such condition, or of such a type, that the noise emitted from the motorcycle is not clearly unreasonably above the level expected from a similar motorcycle with a standard silencer in average condition.” As far as I can tell, it's not appreciably louder. That's with the Fuel chrome full length end can.

[@justthewayitis]

Hello and welcome to the channel and thank you for sharing your experience with your Honda ( great bike btw ) it sounds like you have a great solution and as your aware the MOT test does not currently measure sound emissions so your probably safe in that regard. And as long as the bike is not overly loud I doubt you will be stopped and tested. It might even pass a road side test if that happened. Things here in Germany and many other areas of Europe are more strict, but Thankyou for sharing it will help other owners. Kind regards Carl

[@Skiamakhos]

@@justthewayitis to be on the safe side I'll probably take it to the same place that did the work to get the MOT! :-) I'll check out the noise levels with a noise metre app tomorrow, just to make sure - I do have all the old bits for if/when I want to sell it on, though my MO tends to be to find myself a Swiss Army Knife type bike, that's good for everything I need & stick with it for decades, till the parts dry up. I kept my last one for 25 years!

[@justthewayitis]

Let me know what the noise meter reads, it’s probably close to OEM 😉

[@vascosantos9495]

Thank you so much for this fantastic video! It makes me wonder, could we possibly install some kind of button to be able to remotely control the valve? this way we could control the level of sound

[@justthewayitis]

Thank you for your feedback 👍. There is an exhaust that does exactly that, it’s made by these guys. www.jekillandhyde.com/de/brand-selector Best wishes Carl

[@brianlekei8920]

As usual another well done video Carl, thank you. Don’t you use the full rpm range on nearly every ride? Yes I know ha,ha. I do. 😊

[@justthewayitis]

Good morning Brian, 👍🙋🏻‍♂️

[@Andy-photo]

It happened to my 2020 RT at around 7000 miles. The valve stuck BMW replaced it with new header pipes thankfully under warranty as the dealership said it would be about £1600.00 (supply and fit) Just over a month later I had to have it replaced again as the new one stuck less than 2000 miles in. Replaced under warranty again. I asked if ant modifications had been made to prevent it happening again - “no just a like for like part” so just waiting for it to happen again. Oh and to top it all off the big bearing went at 9000 meaning a whole new engine ! Guess you can call me lucky !

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Andy, gosh that’s not good at all, really disappointed to hear that. I hope the dealership will compensate you in some way, maybe with a voucher for servicing or clothing. If they don’t offer… I suggest you ask as I know they do have some flexibility in that regard, it’s just a case of raising the question. I wish for you better luck from now on. Let me know how you get on with your question 😉 Best wishes Carl

[@Andy-photo]

@@justthewayitis Hi Carl - I did write to BMW Motorrad UK to express my disappointment they were particularly useless, as my engine blew up two weeks before I was due to go on a European biking tour. I struggled to get a loan bike and when I did I was not permitted to take it out of the UK so consequently could take a bike on my trip. They did offer a voucher of £250.00 as some sort of compensation but to honest I have no faith in the BMW brand but am stuck with it as I can’t afford to change and there is not much out there to compete with 1250 RT at the minute. I was just highlighting the flapper valve problem and how easy it gets stuck and the cost of a dealership repair. Thanks for taking the time to comment and I found your video excellent as it explains what the valve actually does because the dealership told me it was all about emissions. (what a shocker eh!) Best wishes Andy

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Andy, I agree the RT is such a capable bike there’s not a lot of options to replace it. Thank you for clarifying 👍 I’m aware of a fair few unhappy BMW owners, I really hope they improve there build quality with the next generation Carl

[@nigelhanbury8169]

Brilliant Video. real professional thanks

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Nigel, thank you 👍

[@paulrichardson1906]

Fairplay to BMW under warranty. I had two exhausts fitted to try and solve that floppy valve because I do use the bike off-road even trying to maintain it. It’s still got stuck but it really isn’t an issue. That would make me feel any difference about my BMW absolute fantastic, bike👍

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Paul, thank you for sharing 👍🙋🏻‍♂️, regards Carl

[@paulrichardson1906]

Hi just wanted to let you know I’ve found a product from a company called Heal tech Uk for a ES eliminator which I am going to fit to my GS 1250 Rally due to the problems with flappy valves spoke with a lovely lady called Jane and Mike. This product can be used with standard exhaust, not only aftermarket. Will let you know how I get on..👍 5:07

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Paul, yes ! please do let me know I’m interested as will be many owners. Thank you for taking the time to let me know. Best wishes Carl

[@larskjellin1614]

Thank you so much for a very interesting hour. I learned a lot.

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Lars, thank you 🙏, Carl

[@MichaelShutt-w1p]

Excellent, very detailed instruction.

[@justthewayitis]

Thank you 🙏

[@krukbee]

What an educational video sir!! Thx a lot

[@justthewayitis]

You are very welcome 🙏 Thank you for your comment Carl 🙋🏻‍♂️

[@davidlewin9585]

Hi Carl, Here's a new reason for sticky valves.The Servo Motor is faulty and does not provide a smooth motion of the valve,therefore it's not sticking and the remedy is a new or good functioning second hand one to be checked in the workshop. It's that black plastic thing you pointed out near the exhaust! I have a 2014 GS LC and that is exactly what happened. So if the bikes fairly new it's a warranty case.Me and the chief mechanic with his connections found me one 3 years younger! Happy riding!

[@justthewayitis]

Hi David, thank you for sharing your experience 👍

[@MiguelKooreman76]

What a great explanation and in depth video on this topic! I’m left with one question… can it harm a r ninet euro 5 engine or tis performance when you would remove the flapper valve and leave the servo?

[@justthewayitis]

Hi Miguel, I’m not sure for the r9t, so have look on your local bmw forums and see what other owners have done 👍 Best regards Carl

[@MiguelKooreman76]

@@justthewayitisthnx for the reply, just found out that the euro 5 exhaust made it harder to get rid of the flapper valve. A good solution is an ESE with a control for the flapper valve. Only easy plug and play solution probably.

[@justthewayitis]

And they are very good 👍

[@Scrufflebag]

What a great video. I'll have to check this on my new -to me- 2021 GS.

[@justthewayitis]

Thank you 🙏 Best wishes Carl

[@milabaigar]

great vids Carl keep ‘em coming 👍

[@justthewayitis]

Will do 🙏