Rocker Cover Gaskets

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May 5, 2020 | 08:55 PM

TedMan

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Rocker Cover Gaskets

So, I'm pretty certain my front cylinder bottom and top rocker cover gaskets are leaking. I can see the weeping and moisture from the oil after a ride, and both the front of my AC cover and front of the horn cover are streaked in a little oil. No oil in the AC or collecting in the cover, so not getting blowby, and the rear of the motor is clean. Not coming out of the push rods, and really can't be as the horn cover is getting sprayed too.My compression is 173 front and 170 rear. My set-up is 1996 FLSTN with SE-3 cam, SE AC, SE ignition, RB Racing LSR, and Stock CV with Thunderslide installed by previous owner. 21k on the clock. Scoot runs great, gets up to 48 mpg cruising the backroads and is otherwise running well. If I replace the rocker cover gaskets, besides checking the umbrella valves on this 24 year old, and checking how true the covers are themselves, what else shoud I check/upgrade while I am at it? Also, I've read that Cometic, while high quality, can leak on EVO's, and James gaskets may be a better solution. Feedback here welcome.

Also, with the SE AC, it is vented to the backing plate. With 21k on the clock, is there really any benefit to venting to atmosphere now, or should I just wait until I eventually have to do the top end and new pistons? Thanks ahead for any and all feedback.

Last edited by TedMan; May 5, 2020 at 09:21 PM.

May 5, 2020 | 09:05 PM

daven9113

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From: Grew up in Texas, moved to AZ

I would just replace cover gaskets, and also go ahead and vent to atmosphere. Last time I did it, I just used OEM gaskets. At 21K miles, a warpage of cover is not likely, but it's easy to check their flatness once they are off.

May 5, 2020 | 09:15 PM

Seasoned HDF Member

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Consider replacement of seals (intake manifold seals x 2).

May 5, 2020 | 09:20 PM

TedMan

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Thanks for quick feedback. I don't have my service manual in front of me. Do I need to remove the tank to replace manifold seals, and that is why it is recommended? Thanks again.

May 5, 2020 | 10:34 PM

daven9113

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From: Grew up in Texas, moved to AZ

So, you probably want to remove your gas tank to make the job easier. If your bike was running well, I wouldn't mess with the intake manifold seals. It probably got new seals when the last owner did some work. Your call.

May 6, 2020 | 08:16 AM

TedMan

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Thanks, I'll check the seals, as well. Appreciate the input.

May 7, 2020 | 06:35 AM

Architect

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From: Long Island, New York

OEM gaskets are fine for your application. Make sure you do all of them, front and rear cylinder and take all of the rocker box off down to the head. 90% of the work to do just the upper gasket, might as well keep going and know you will likely never have to touch them again. I did this job on the Twin Cam about 3 years ago, lots of bits and pieces, follow the FSM and keep everything organized but nothing an average mechanic could not accomplish with some patience. Good luck.