Should I replace the Gaskets?

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Jan 31, 2014 | 08:08 AM

LokiBobber

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Joined: Aug 2013

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From: Lincoln, NE

Should I replace the Gaskets?

I've just removed the primary cover, cam cover, clutch cover, transmission cover to take them to the powder coat guy. My question is, do I need to replace all the gaskets on the covers or should I be OK? The bike is a 2009 and has 2,600 miles on it. Thanks in advance!

Feb 1, 2014 | 02:52 PM

GraemeR

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From: Melbourne

Generally speaking YES. Some folks do have lick reusing them and not having oil leaks but they are the exception to the rule.

Play it safe and replace with a good brand name set.

Feb 1, 2014 | 03:01 PM

Stiggy

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Joined: Nov 2010

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From: Oxford, Nc

For a big job like that I probably would. That having been said I'm still reusing my primary gasket going back to 2007 (over 100,000 miles ago.) When/if it finally starts to seep, I'll replace her then. Outermost gaskets don't scare me much, but if its deeper than that, then always IMO.

Feb 4, 2014 | 06:24 AM

M&P340

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Joined: Nov 2011

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From: Alabama

I tear my bike down for careful inspection each winter. I've had each of the parts you mention off/back on using the same James gaskets at least 3 times (5 in case of cam chest - crappy '04 tensioners!). Never had a single drop leak (other than when I first open it up). If the gaskets are quality to begin with, wern't glued on, & you don't damage them on disassembly, no need to replace.

Feb 4, 2014 | 06:32 AM

ynots

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Joined: Apr 2010

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From: Southern Oregon

I agree with M&P ^^^^

If they look good I'd reuse them. Just be sure and follow the proper torque sequence during reassembly

Feb 10, 2014 | 09:27 AM

LokiBobber

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From: Lincoln, NE

Thanks Guys! I recently bought the shop manual specifically for the torque values and sequences. I was flipping through it last night and noticed that some of the patterns, especially on the primary, were nothing close to what I thought they would be.

Feb 19, 2014 | 10:53 AM

btwbzo

6th Gear

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From: MT

I like to have new gaskets on the bench if needed but am planning on reuseing the old ones if they are not damaged during maintence.

Ditto to what Stiggy says! " Outermost gaskets don't scare me much, but if its deeper than that, then always IMO."