RE. Popping and Backfire

[Lonerbtw]

First off, I would like to thank all of you who tried to help me with my problem.  History - Hydralock, popping and backfire, loss of compression #2, tried all suggestions, hydralock again, Pingal and Dan Marc, tried all suggestions again, compression down on #2, 4 & 6, but still runs fair and have put several thousand miles on it this summer.  My last statement was that I would ride it till it blows, then I will know what to fix.  Well, here it is winter and the Lady is still running the same as before.  I have bought a new head and all the gaskets for the change so I am going to tear her down and change it and see what happens.  So, I guess my question is:  Is there any little things that I should look for in tearing her down and rebuild, like hidden bolts or things that go PING in the night and end up on the other side of the shop?  As before any suggestions are greatly appreciated.  I have a better than fair knowledge of motorcycle mechanics, but have never been this far into the motor on a Valkyrie.  I do have a good Clymer book, but there is nothing like experience.

[GOOSE]

Lonerbtw......there has got to be somebody (another member) out there in or about porterville that would probably look at, and or help with your problem.  most of these old guys here on this this board are really pretty knowledgeable (sp) on the workings of the valkyrie.  I'm pretty sure if you hold off a day or two....let some of them chime in.