Rocker cover casting

[jetts68]

Hi all. I'm looking at getting some welding done on my cbx1000z rocker cover. There is a small chip in it just above the cam end plate of all places, which makes it an eye sore to the aesthetics of the engine. Does anyone know what the casting is made from. Is it just aluminium or is there magnesium in it.

[NobleHops]

It’s an aluminum alloy of course, but a relatively high-quality alloy, I am going to guess it’s higher in nickel than the cases or side covers, for example. I have vapor blasted plenty of them and they brighten up well, which is a telltale. It will take a very fine touch to weld and file that for a good appearance.

Part of the challenge is matching the color of the metal in some instances, but this part is painted anyway, so when you’re finished, get a can of Duplicolor GM Silver or similar and you’ll end up with a good original appearance.