GS450 engine question

[PDXRyan]

Howdy! This should be an easy one. So, I always thought the left side of the engine with the alternator is supposed to be dry but I cracked it open to replace my alternator and it was full of oil. Is this normal or do I have a bad seal? If it's supposed to be dry I suppose I have an answer to why my alternator is bad.
Anyway, thanks for your time!

It's a 1980 gs450e by the way if it makes a difference.

[tkent02]

it is supposed to have oil in it.

[PDXRyan]

Thanks for that, just needed to make sure.

[davidduarte]

Howdy! This should be an easy one. So, I always thought the left side of the engine with the alternator is supposed to be dry but I cracked it open to replace my alternator and it was full of oil. Is this normal or do I have a bad seal? If it's supposed to be dry I suppose I have an answer to why my alternator is bad.
Anyway, thanks for your time!

It's a 1980 gs450e by the way if it makes a difference.

I have the same bike, and I've replaced the stator on an 850 before (and will soon be replacing it on the 450 as well). The directions call for you to drop the oil before pulling the case off.

[cowboyup3371]

Yes it is supposed to have oil there to help it remain cool, otherwise it will burn up on you. However, you don't necessarily have to drain the oil to get to it. If you lean the bike up against the wall on the right side, you can remove it without draining the oil (based on what I read).

[tom203]

Yes it is supposed to have oil there to help it remain cool, otherwise it will burn up on you. However, you don't necessarily have to drain the oil to get to it. If you lean the bike up against the wall on the right side, you can remove it without draining the oil (based on what I read).

THat's correct, based on my stator removal (650L) last summer- Leaned right, and waited - I didn't see any oil.

[davidduarte]

how far over do you have to lean it? gas doesn't start leaking out of the tank or carbs?

[cowboyup3371]

Just have the bike off the side stand and center stand and lean it a little more than how you are going to ride it. If gas is going to leak out of the tank or carbs at that angle, you have other more serious problems.