I am replacing my stator this weekend and need to remove the Primary cover. I purchased a new gasket, I am just wondering if I should use RTV on the gasket before reassembly.

I am guessing no, but I wanted to see what the techs on the board have to say.

 

Nope, and no gasket cement either. Buy a new HD gasket. Clean the surfaces well, and install the bolts in the recommended order per the torque specs. Had mine off a few times, and it is still good. If the mating surfaces are damaged...that may be another story.

 

I wouldn't use RTV anywhere on a Harley.

 

Thanks guys, that was my thought as well. I picked up a new gasket along with the new Stator. I expect this to be at least a 6 pack job...

 

I have twice. I lay it on a piece of clean cardboard. I just film it Black RTV. NO MORE. Then, I stick it over the dowels and torque in outward per the manual with just a T wrench with the 1/4 allen in it between my fingers. I WAIT till bead dries the next day and roll it off the edge like a black rubber band. Warm it and retorque slightly when warm. Next time you pull cover, it will peel right off.
Do it on the cam galley cover also.. It fills those minor scratches. Some primary covers are warped as much as a 1/32 front to back. That face is a casting. Of course, the engine is machined.

Examine the faces well. With no gasket, put your cover on and see if you have any shake. Harleys's gasket has a slight V shape and is three layers. However, RTV black adds a little protection. Don't even think about trying it unless you have a day for it to dry. You use it and start wiping up with it wet and you will make a horrible mess especially on a mat finish or Harleys black rough powder coat...

 

I expect this to be at least a 6 pack after the job ... Fixed it :>)

 

I have, but only on the cover side. I clean all surfaces well, check for any nicks or imperfections. I use a little RTV and put dabs around. Then take my finger and make a film all around the cover, place the gasket on, let it sit for few minutes, then install cover. Now I said create a film, more like making sure there is damn little on but enough to insure a seal. Never had an issue cleaning off the old.
Ive seen guys take and put a 1/4" rope bead all around, then wonder why they have this crap all over the inside!!!

 

You wouldn't believe the goobered up rtv jobs I dealt with on old shovels and pans

 

There is no place on a motorcycle where RTV is a good choice.

Well....maybe plugging a hole in a saddlebag or fairing or something like that...

 

Never have and not seen anyone do it either.