Hey everyone, I'm new to the forum so bare with me.
I have a 96 softail custom evo. It has started leaking oil for the base gasket and around the cam cover since the cam swap, HD did the work. They fixed it once and now its starting all again. Should I try using another brand of gasket or just use OEM again? Any help from the ole evo guys would be appreciated .

 

Matt, welcome to HDF from the UK. For future reference we have an Evo section, where you can meet fellow owners. I've owned my Evo since new in 1990 and suffered both problems in the distant past, but used aftermarket gaskets with success. So that is my suggestion, but call over to the Evo section, where you can get more specific advice, like brands.

 

I have had this kicking around my shop for a while now, PM me and you can have it for $25 shipped.....

 

We've seen the Evo base gaskets leak for years here.
When we have one come in that is probelmatic, we machine the cylinder bases(skim cut)to establish a true, flat surface, and also to insure perpendicularity of the cylinder base to the bore.
Leak-free at that point.
Scott

 

Thanks guys for all the great info. A base gasket change, Is this a job I can do myself or is it back to HD?

 

Service manual, torque wrench, ring compressor, etc. is needed.
Note;
If this is going to be the 3rd known set of gaskets, machine the cylinder bases as I have already made mention of.
They will not leak anymore.
Scott

 

It is doable, with a few tools, see also Scott's reply. A factory service manual should be your first purchase, available from your local friendly dealer. You'll get your money back several times over on this job alone.

It is well worth heeding Scott's advice about the base of your cylinders. I had leaking gaskets on my Evo, owned from new and a known problem back then, but they have been fine ever since.

 

^ this fixed my 97 RK 25k miles back and still no leaks at 66k miles and I'm not a mild type of rider. Well worth $25.

 

It would only make sense to have the jugs looked at, at the least, if you already have it apart. Kinda makes sense it was leaking in the first place....