1982 GS1100 GK Valdez

[81gnta]

After getting caught in a bad traffic snarl in hot weather my bike overheated and ever since leaks oil badly after it warms up. I had a mechanic look at it and he says I burnt up the sealant between the crankcase halves - quoted me $1200 to fix it, maybe more. It is mostly labor - the sealant is cheap, but who knows what else a person may find once in there that needs repairs.

I really like this old bike but dont want to spend that much money on a $2,000 30 year old bike.

Anyone ever done this repair themselves? Any tips/pointers?

[Nessism]

First thing to do is pinpoint the source of the leak yourself. I recommend using some engine degreaser to clean the engine really well and then having a close look after you restart the engine to see where the oil is coming from. Leaks from the crankcase halves are rare, most likely the base gasket or head gasket are leaking. Not the simplest of repairs, but better than having to split the crankcases. In either case, not difficult but most people don't have the energy for major engine repairs so you may have to ask yourself the tough question.

[Suzuki_Don]

but most people don't have the energy for major engine repairs

C'mon Ed, there's plenty of energy out there. Plenty of people have split cases, even non mechanics. If he LUVS that bike then nothing is too much trouble and he will learn heaps and develop skills he never had before.

MERRY XMAS Ed.

[BassCliff]

Greetings and Salutations!!

Hi Mr. 81gnta,

Yes, first things first. Clean the motor and verify where the leak is. Let me share some GS lovin' and some GS cheer!

I just stopped by to welcome you to the forum in my own, special way.

If there's anything you'd like to know about the Suzuki GS model bikes, and most others actually, you've come to the right place. There's a lot of knowledge and experience here in the community. Come on in and let me say "HOoooowwwDY!"....

Here is your very own magical, mystical, mythical, mind-expanding "mega-welcome". Please take notice of the "Top 10 Common Issues", the Carb Rebuild Series, and the Stator Papers. Now let me roll out the welcome mat for you...

Please click here for your mega-welcome, chock full of tips, suggestions, links to vendors, and other information. Then feel free to visit my little BikeCliff website where I've been collecting the wisdom of this generous community. Don't forget, we like pictures! Not you, your bike!

Thanks for joining us. Keep us informed.

Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff

[Nessism]

C'mon Ed, there's plenty of energy out there. Plenty of people have split cases, even non mechanics. If he LUVS that bike then nothing is too much trouble and he will learn heaps and develop skills he never had before.

MERRY XMAS Ed.

Ha ha Don. Most people around here don't even have the energy to rebuild their carbs correctly no less rebuild an engine. I know YOU have the energy and know how, but you are among the rare few.

Oh, and Merry Christmas to you too.