About a year ago I had my primary cover off my 2011 Fatboy for powder coating. I reused the stock gasket (I think it was metal) knowing it may leak. (I'm new to wrenching on motorcycles, so I learn by getting myself in trouble)


The gasket now leaks so started shopping for a new one on JP Cycles site. Overwhelmed by the choices, I'd like a recommendation on the best gasket. Nobody likes a leaking machine!


Thanks for the input.

 

Personally, I just use HD as they're a good gasket and always in stock just down the road.

 

Harley gaskets are better than any of the aftermarket ones. Trust me on this.

 

IMHO sealing gaskets is mostly about the prep. Absolutely clean surfaces and then follow the usual instructions.

 

Did your Harley Davidson Service Manual say anything about re-using the stock gasket?

 

After cleaning the surfaces well, and using a new HD gasket, follow the service manual procedure for tbe order to fasten the screws...and torque them to spec.

 

I'm assuming you tried re-torquing the bolts first? Those gaskets are usually good for a few re-uses.

 

That outer primary is hard to screw up gasket wise. I have never used a new gasket, never really cleaned it off, never torqued a screw and never followed the sequence for tightening, I have never had mine leak! Have you looked at the outer primary to make sure he masked off the gasket area before powder coating? If the sealing area is powder coated it probably isn't flat and there is your problem.

 

The powder coating may have changed the thickness of the cover so it might not seal tight with the stock gasket anymore you may need to find a thinner one and see if that does anything

 

Cometic is generally considered the best brand of gaskets....
James is pretty good too. I'd use either (and I do) of those over factory.

That said, even an average middle grade factory gasket for the outer primary can be used and re-used quite a few times. There's not a lot of pressure buildup in there. Just ensure clean surfaces, and the "torque down' sequence is done fairly well. Work from the center out...little bits at a time.