[bookm]

I've searched "oil leak" and most posts deal with the base gasket issue (which I assume is at the base of the cylinder, on top of the crank case).



My leak seams more likely to be a bad head gasket. Just thought I'd get some thoughts before I rip in to it.

I did recently adjust the valves, but it's bone dry around the covers. It didn't leak before that but I'd only had it out on brief off-road rides 'till now (just bought it).



1987 TW

Only leaks when very warm. Ticks like crazy when hot (such as after a 98k/h run). Fresh oil, old oil was like black water, WAY overdue.



Thanks

 

[small's]

Maybe clean it off and powder it "ride it or let it run a bit" to see where its leaking. No since of tearing it apart if you dont know where its leaking. I think some use a foot powder. I used baby powder and that worked for me. I had a base gasket leaking in the front/front left. If your leaking oil out of the exhaust gasket you have other issues. Maybe bad rings or valve seals. Good luck.

 

[bookm]

Ahh... I'd seen "powder" mentioned on other posts but didn't register it's function... NOW I get it

The all black engine makes it really tough to diagnose otherwise.

A cold spell set in all of a sudden. Warm in a few days. Will follow up.

 

[Dubster]

Have you tried re-torquing the head bolts?

 

[bookm]

Yep, head bolts were fine...



BUT., looks like I've found my problem. I am tad embarrassed I didn't notice this when I adjusted my valves, but there is clearly a large section of o-ring missing from the intake cover. Leaking oil would then wick its way around to the front of the motor and drip from there. I cut a cork gasket for now until new o-rings arrive.



While I was dirty, I went ahead and pulled the cam cover. The o-ring seamed to be completely flush with the case, so I cut a cork gasket for that too. I'll just get ALL new o-rings.

 

[admiral]

Good reminder for all to inspect/replace o-rings, seals, gaskets when they remove a component.



Thanks for posting your result.

 

[elime]

I had to replace all the o-rings on my '87 TW. They all oozed oil. Then I discovered the neutral switch also leaked. That has now been replaced and hopefully I am good for a while.



O-rings can be really inexpensive if you go to the right place.



http://tw200forum.co...h__1#entry31846