Grrrr
Valve cover gasket leak
I've got an 09 883L with the same problem. It developed on a super hot day around 3500 miles. I have 6500 now and it hasn't gotten much worse. It's on the front cylender. What's it run to have a shop fix it? Anybody know? I'm afraid to tackle any engine work.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 2,705
Likes: 2
From: D.C.
I did the work myself. I was not very comfortable, but I bought the set of gaskets for $40-50, a torque wrench, kept the service manual near me at all times, and did a lot if research online. 4 hours later, I was done.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 3,212
Likes: 212
Standard shop rate is $180 for one cylinder. That's 1.5 hours I believe. It's cheaper to have them do both at the same time, I think it comes out to like $320 for both.
Road Master
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 1,030
Likes: 65
From: Calgary AB
I just picked up a set of rocker box gaskets. Sometime over the winter I'll dig into it, first time for me too.
Sounds like a pretty common problem, I think it's best to learn to do it yourself.
I did pick up one of these wrenches, I like the idea of being able to torque the covers. And it's cheap.
https://www.denniskirk.com/_.p282560.prd
A related question, getting old baked on oil off of aluminum fins (silver, 883), what's the best chemical or cleaner to use? I don't want to use something that's going to discolor the fins.
Sounds like a pretty common problem, I think it's best to learn to do it yourself.
I did pick up one of these wrenches, I like the idea of being able to torque the covers. And it's cheap.
https://www.denniskirk.com/_.p282560.prd
A related question, getting old baked on oil off of aluminum fins (silver, 883), what's the best chemical or cleaner to use? I don't want to use something that's going to discolor the fins.
Last edited by dwagar; Dec 17, 2011 at 08:55 AM.
Trending Topics
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 3,212
Likes: 212
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
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
Southpaw Super Glide: A Left-Hand-Drive 1979 Harley FXE Built to Fit the Rider
Verdad Gallardo
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
dayhunt85
Sportster Models
14
Mar 31, 2013 06:14 PM
