Suspect blown head gasket

[tussuck]

Hey there.... I suspect I have a blown or leaking front head gasket because I have black oily chit on the fins in the area where the head meets the cylinder.

What's a good test to check things out? I do have a comp tester but not a leakdown one if that helps.


Sent from my iPhone using Motorcycle.com App

[SCHMIDTYS]

Use your compression tester, you'll be able to hear the leak. Check both cylinders for comparison.

[Dave63]

Compression testing will show a change if the gasket is violated.

Regardless, if the compression ring isn't damaged and it's leaking via the oil passage, you'll still have to yank the head to repair the leak. I'm guessing the compression ring is leaking because the oil passages have dowels in them. As well, no pressure to push anything out, unless a pressure source is created.

[tussuck]

Thanks guys... I'll run the test when I get home tonight. I have been wondering how long the gasket would last so perhaps I now know...lol

The rings should be okay as they are only one season old, but you never know how hard the blower is on the engine. Fingers crossed they are fine and that its a storm in a teacup.


Sent from my iPhone using Motorcycle.com App

[bikedelic]

Sorry to hear of your troubles. Good luck straightening it out.

[SCHMIDTYS]

Try the James or Cometic multi-layered (sandwiched) head gaskets.