1980 GS1000G Oil Leak

[knotscott]

I picked up this project on Saturday. I'm thinking the first issue is to address an oil leak. The previous owner replaced the valve cover gasket and it looks ok, which makes me think the head gasket may need to be replaced, or maybe just the head bolts tightened down? I'm familiar with the concept and am fairly mechanically inclined, but having never done it before I thought I'd solicits thoughts and guidance from those who have.... am I on the right track? Could a clogged breather vent tube cause oil leaks? Other thoughts?

leak1.jpg

[JTGS850GL]

I'd start with doing a good degrease and cleanup of the entire engine. Once you have all the oil off then dust the engine with some baby powder. Once you run the engine it should reveal where the oil is leaking from.

All too often oil will migrate around from the source of the leak and reveal its self in areas that are not leaking. Once you've identified the source of the leak you should have a better idea as to what will be involved in getting it under control.

[knotscott]

Great idea...thank you!