I have to pull the motor and split the cases to find and fix an oil leak. I just went through the transmission. Any tips? They say Shovel heads are known for leaking. Yeas ago I had a 75 and a 78 and neither dripped one single drop of oil.

I don't want to have to do this again. That is why I am asking for experienced
shovelhead lovers. I have not been on a shovel from nearly 40 years.

 

If you are splitting the cases, I strongly suggest taking them to a machine shop and having the mating surfaces milled. I'd also balance the flywheels, connecting rods and pistons while you've got them out.

 

Use Cometic gaskets, the metal/ silicon wafer ones particularly on the rocker boxes, James stuff isn't what used to be.

I use a bit of lapping compound on the case halves to get a good matched surface (be sure to clean very well when done) and Yamabond sealer on the crankcase seam, seals very nicely.

 

Most shovelhead leaks came from the primary/transmission...not the motor itself.

 

shovels are no worse or better then any other Harley of that vintage

we use yamabond # 4 on engine cases and all pipe threads to stop any possible leaks

as twist has said fine valve grinding compound / some finesse will help in a big way

 

On my shovelhead the leaks at the case was the 2 bottom bolts I removed them 1 at a time ( had to raise engine 1/4 inch ) and put in copper washers on both ends
And another trans leak -- H-D left out a vent for the trans DUHHH a leak 1st year for the 5 speed, I cut 1/4 inch out of a fiber washer for under the dipstick , no more leak

 

I wouldn't recommend splitting cases because you have an oil leak. Where is your leak?

 

If the crank does get pulled, balancing that assembly, makes a LARGE difference.
Scott