1992 fxr base gasket leak
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Stage III
Joined: Sep 2017
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From: Boston
1992 fxr base gasket leak
Hey everyone. I'm doing base gaskets on my 1992 fxrs with 7000 original miles. When I tear it all apart while I'm in the motor should I replace the piston rings and head studs? And anything I should look out for ? Thanks
Tourer
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 497
Likes: 8
From: New Egypt, NJ
With 7000 miles on a 25 year old bike, theoretically tje rings should be fine. However, it's pretty likely the cylinder walls have gotten a little rusty numerous times and the rings scraped that off - or maybe they got a lot rusty. I would at least do a compression test and a leakdown test before disassembly. This will tell you a lot. If you have a borescope or can borrow or rent one, take a look inside. That may be a waste of time, since you'll see when it's apart, but a borescope would give you a clue what you're in for.
I'd replace valve seals for sure, it's almost a sure thing they're dried out and hard and pretty much good for nothing.
I'd replace valve seals for sure, it's almost a sure thing they're dried out and hard and pretty much good for nothing.
Tourer
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 388
Likes: 13
From: Richmond, Virginia
Rings are cheap, Do it. Hit it with a glaze breaker, the pistons should be fine. Cylinder studs should be good, I have never replaced any unless they were pulled out of the case. I always used copper coat on the base gaskets, even though Harley says not to. Never had another leak again.
Grand HDF Member
Joined: May 2014
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From: florida
take a good look at the areas around the tappet blocks,,,,that year engine had issues with oil leaks that looked like a base gasket leak, but were actually the tappet block gaskets,,,make sure that you clean it up really well and be sure it's the base,,,,,might save yourself some time and money,,,,if you already know for sure it's the bases the advise already given is pretty sound.
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Tourer
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 388
Likes: 13
From: Richmond, Virginia
Only way I have ever done it is with the motor in the frame. Jack the rear wheel up, place the trans in 5th, use the rear wheel to turn the engine as needed. I never pull an engine unless the cases have to come apart for some reason, or I am just swapping the entire engine assembly. BTW, when you get the jugs off, cover those spigot holes! Nothing worse than dropping something into the lower end!
Last edited by feguy1; Sep 21, 2017 at 05:24 AM.
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Joined: Dec 2007
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Might want to true those cylinder bases, as they were not machined from HD.
Cast, not machined.
The bores should be checked with a bore guage, if OK, hone/re-ring.
Scott
Cast, not machined.
The bores should be checked with a bore guage, if OK, hone/re-ring.
Scott
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Stage III
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From: Boston
You guys think downloading the service Manuel online would be good? Or should I try to find a hard copy for it.
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Joined: May 2014
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From: florida
the online copy will suffice, but I like paper i can carry out to the bike with me. yes you can do the job with the engine in the frame and no primary removal. take the tank off and you will have room. with an fxr you might have to loosen or remove engine mounts and raise or lower the engine some and cut up some allen wrenches to get the rear rocker box apart, but it can be done. Scott gave real good advise on the cylinder prep and can do that work for you if you ship your stuff off to him once you get it apart. HD's are not rocket science, get the book, take your time, ask questions when you get stuck and you can get it done.
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