1980 GS1000G head gasket question

[Guest]

Hi, I'm finally getting around to the engine part of my restoration project now that it is getting warmer. My question is this; my bike was leaking at the cam chain tunnel so I'm doing the head and base gasket job on it. I have the multi layer steel head gasket from Suzuki. When I ordered it I also ordered the o ring for the cam tunnel, I have since read that the o ring is not necessary with this style head gasket. Can I use the o ring with the muti layer steel head gasket? Since I paid $21.00 for the o ring and I really don't want to end up with a leaker I would prefer to use it. Also do you coat the head gasket with a spray like copper coat or high tack or do you install dry? Thanks for your advise.

[Nessism]

No on the O-ring.

Some people coat the outer stud hole area of the gasket, where the oil passes up to the cams. Personally, I don't, nor did Suzuki when they built the engine. But I don't think it will hurt anything.

[WShie]

Thanks, anything else to watch for when it goes back together? Cylinders will be honed, new valve guide seals, valves will be lapped.

[Nessism]

It's pretty straight forward work. Some people struggle to get the rings compressed into the pistons when inserting the pistons into the cylinder. An extra set of hands help here.

Good luck