I started my bike up this morning to warm it up and walked back inside to finish getting ready. when I came back outside I could smell fuel. After investigating I could see fuel dripping from my rear cylinder head. I am going to do the replacement myself. Can anyone give me a list of all the parts I will need to replace while replacing the head gaskets, and any sugestions of things I should replace while I am in there? 1989 Sportster XLH1200 with aprox 40000 miles.

 

I'm almost 100% sure that a head gasket is not your problem. Most likely it's an intake gasket but with out a picture of some sort it's hard to tell from where I'm at.

 

Based on your post you should probably take it to a shop.

 

I cant really afford to take it to a shop thats why I am going to do the work myself!

 

As OldEnuf2NoBtr Said, Don't think it can be the head gasket. If anything it would leak oil and definitely not fuel. Your problem is elsewhere. It would cost but about 60-80 dollars to have an indy look at it and at least guide you before you throw your money away. Sometimes you have to spend a little to save a lot....

 

After work yesterday I came home hoping to get a better view of where the fuel was leaking from. Turned the bike on and the leak was gone! Has anyone ever seen this before?

 

The correct service and parts manual for your motorcycle would answer a lot of your questions.

 

Guess the wrenches will stay in the drawer for now.
Scott