To use gasket sealent or not?

[Guest]

Recently did the valves on my 850G. Put it all back together without the use of any gasket sealant. Recently the bike has started to leak oil from the valve cover gasket and the cam end seals. I tool it all apart and all looks fine. should I replace the parts with new or reuse with gasket sealant? I am leaving for a trip in a week and need to get it done asap.

[mike_of_bbg]

If possible get new gaskets and half-moons. Use threebond or similar (Yamabond, Hondabond, etc.) on the round parts of the half-moons. Putting the half-moons in backwards (lips in) might help. Good tip from Steve recently too, to tighten down the valve cover without the gasket for a night to fully seat the half-moons, then re-install in the morning with a fresh gasket. Lightly grease one side to aid in re-use.