Good day all.
After this last build (2017-2018), I have a great running Black Shadow that has a persistent oil leak. Prior to today, it seemed to be coming from the front exhaust port, so I just finished installing sealed lower valve guides, re-cut the valve seats and installed a PCV breather at the front exhaust valve spring cap. I took the bike out for about 20 miles this morning, and it is a pleasure to ride. However the leak is still there and is so bad, it covered the front of the engine with oil which also made its way to the rear tire (tyre).
After this morning's ride, I parked the bike on the driveway and observed the engine for about 15 minutes while idling. The oil just seems to appear under the front exhaust port on the cylinder muff about three fins down from the head joint. It also appears on the next three fins down and then drips onto the front of the engine.
Pressurizing the case to a few psi yielded no leaks while applying soapy water from a spray bottle to the entire engine. That was a last ditch effort!
In KTB, E. M. G. Stevens advises to apply Wellseal to the right rear head bolt of each cylinder where these thread into the case. I did seal these some 40 years ago and have had no trouble. Could this now be the culprit? Hoping there is other wisdom here as I'd rather avoid pulling the top end again.
Thanks.
Regards,
Russ
998cc
After this last build (2017-2018), I have a great running Black Shadow that has a persistent oil leak. Prior to today, it seemed to be coming from the front exhaust port, so I just finished installing sealed lower valve guides, re-cut the valve seats and installed a PCV breather at the front exhaust valve spring cap. I took the bike out for about 20 miles this morning, and it is a pleasure to ride. However the leak is still there and is so bad, it covered the front of the engine with oil which also made its way to the rear tire (tyre).
After this morning's ride, I parked the bike on the driveway and observed the engine for about 15 minutes while idling. The oil just seems to appear under the front exhaust port on the cylinder muff about three fins down from the head joint. It also appears on the next three fins down and then drips onto the front of the engine.
Pressurizing the case to a few psi yielded no leaks while applying soapy water from a spray bottle to the entire engine. That was a last ditch effort!
In KTB, E. M. G. Stevens advises to apply Wellseal to the right rear head bolt of each cylinder where these thread into the case. I did seal these some 40 years ago and have had no trouble. Could this now be the culprit? Hoping there is other wisdom here as I'd rather avoid pulling the top end again.
Thanks.
Regards,
Russ
998cc