Hey all, I have a 2007 xl1200l sportster (5700miles) and it looks like I have a small oil leak near the front cylinder rocker cover.

I did some research on the forum and I am 90% sure that it needs a replacement gasket.

I have also been experiencing a sputtering on startup with a hesitation when popping the throttle. I assume it is just warming up, but there were a few smoke pops that came out(not really a backfire).

Please let me know if you think that is it.

FYI: I recently did a 5000 mile service with new oil and spark plugs.

 

Yep it's a gasket alright. Exactly where mine let loose. Mind that motor mount bolt too, they like to loosen when oiled like that.

Gasket and sputtering probably not related though.

 

ok cool, I will order up the gasket. Will keep troubleshooting the sputtering.

 

Check that the screws holding the rocker cover aren't getting loose from vibration.