Re-use Primary Gasket?
Re-use Primary Gasket?
Simple question, can some primary gaskets be re-used? I installed the gasket on last winter when I replaced the clutch, it's one of the James Gaskets with a silicone bead. When I removed my primary cover last night the gasket popped off with no tears or cracks making me think it could be re-used. Should I use a bit of gasket dressing, or just clean and re-install?
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2017
Posts: 12,258
Likes: 4,947
From: England
I buy a new gasket just in case. Make sure it and the mating surfaces are clean and re-use it. Knowing you have a new one will probably make the old one work just fine!
I have done two clutches now and the stock HD gasket was stuck and the cover didn't come away. Although the gasket didn't appear to be damaged I changed them anyway for another HD one and both times have been successful without using any sealant just a thin film of oil to make it stick to the crankcase during assembly.
I have done two clutches now and the stock HD gasket was stuck and the cover didn't come away. Although the gasket didn't appear to be damaged I changed them anyway for another HD one and both times have been successful without using any sealant just a thin film of oil to make it stick to the crankcase during assembly.
Road Warrior
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 1,826
Likes: 1,047
From: Southwest Desert
The only way to find out is to put it back in. If it leaks, then U should have used a new one. I have gotten away with doing it myself. It was a newer gasket, and I was willing to gamble it, and it paid off. No leaks over 2 years now. Just make sure you use Loctite and torque the bolts to the right specs and in the right order. There is a thread on that somewhere...
.
That being said, an old gasket is likely more brittle from heat cycling. A tip I learned from an old biker was to use a thin film of white lithium grease on the gasket as you install it. Also never use any type of sealing product. Clean the surfaces to perfection without marring it, and let the gasket do the work...
.
That being said, an old gasket is likely more brittle from heat cycling. A tip I learned from an old biker was to use a thin film of white lithium grease on the gasket as you install it. Also never use any type of sealing product. Clean the surfaces to perfection without marring it, and let the gasket do the work...
Last edited by SirHarley; Feb 8, 2022 at 09:59 AM.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 100,455
Likes: 19,811
From: Centennial, CO
I've reused the Harley cover gaskets multiple times. Something that Harley does real well.
I've had nothing but trouble with James or Cometic cover gaskets.
Certainly give it a try, but make sure your drain pan is really clean just in case.
I've had nothing but trouble with James or Cometic cover gaskets.
Certainly give it a try, but make sure your drain pan is really clean just in case.
The only way to find out is to put it back in. If it leaks, then U should have used a new one. I have gotten away with doing it myself. It was a newer gasket, and I was willing to gamble it, and it paid off. No leaks over 2 years now. Just make sure you use Loctite and torque the bolts to the right specs and in the right order. There is a thread on that somewhere...
.
That being said, an old gasket is likely more brittle from heat cycling. A tip I learned from an old biker was to use a thin film of white lithium grease on the gasket as you install it. Also never use any type of sealing product. Clean the surfaces to perfection, and let the gasket do the work...
.
That being said, an old gasket is likely more brittle from heat cycling. A tip I learned from an old biker was to use a thin film of white lithium grease on the gasket as you install it. Also never use any type of sealing product. Clean the surfaces to perfection, and let the gasket do the work...
sweet, this is the info i was hoping to find. i've re-used newish gaskets before but don't have experience with these silicone bead type gaskets. mating surfaces will be super clean, i usually use brake cleaner on a rag to clean oil residue before reassembly. thanks!
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2017
Posts: 12,258
Likes: 4,947
From: England
In 2008 and 2017 it looks like HD calls for no Loctite but changed the torque value up in 2017 from 100-120 in-lbs to 120-140 in-lbs
Last edited by Andy from Sandy; Feb 8, 2022 at 10:51 AM.
Road Warrior
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 1,826
Likes: 1,047
From: Southwest Desert
Addl info....
I once read that using anti seize and thread lock increases the torque values because it acts as a thread lubricant. The testing torqued threads to value with the threads wet, and removed them when they were dry. Removing them took a higher torque than when installed and the thread lubricant theory was born. Before I install my bolts, I apply the Loctite and let it sit. Then I torque to the lower end of the scale in the torque range. Theoretically, I guess the bolt should be harder to remove with the Loctite. Without Loctite my primary cover screws have had a habit of coming loose. So beware...
I once read that using anti seize and thread lock increases the torque values because it acts as a thread lubricant. The testing torqued threads to value with the threads wet, and removed them when they were dry. Removing them took a higher torque than when installed and the thread lubricant theory was born. Before I install my bolts, I apply the Loctite and let it sit. Then I torque to the lower end of the scale in the torque range. Theoretically, I guess the bolt should be harder to remove with the Loctite. Without Loctite my primary cover screws have had a habit of coming loose. So beware...
Last edited by SirHarley; Feb 8, 2022 at 11:39 AM.
Trending Topics
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 3,782
Likes: 1,202
From: river
Ive never used loctite on the primary cover bolts. Ive reused the HD primary gasket more times than I can count. As a racer and maintaining 3 different Xl clutches on 3 Xls Id be broke buying a new gaskets every time.
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Verdad Gallardo
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Harley-Davidson Needs to Fix in 2026
Verdad Gallardo
Road Captain
Joined: Jan 2020
Posts: 690
Likes: 374
From: Where the spirit meets the road
Same here . I've had the primary cover off three times now and what looks like the original gasket stays stuck to the engine . I've used no sealants and the gasket dosen't leak a drop of oil . Which is nice .