Leaking Base Gasket

[colin9623]

Firstly can the Cyl head and barrel come off without removing the engine from the frame?
This engine has only done about 1000kms since rebuild and has developed a oil leak from the right front of the base gasket. I used an after market Gasket set, I can't recall the brand. However is it best to use genuine or what's a good brand? I don't want have to do this again.
Thanks.

[hampshirehog]

Firstly can the Cyl head and barrel come off without removing the engine from the frame?

Probably - what model? I don't now one where you couldn't but I've never worked on some of the US spec bikes and there might be an exception.

OEM gasket sets are usually best as you know what you're getting. However, some of the pattern sets are fine - Athena (don't look as good but in fact are), Vesrah (some people don't like 'em but I've never had any probs), home made (why don't people do this so much now - dead easy, cheap and you control the quality though don't try and make your own head gasket and you'll still need the rubbers).

[colin9623]

Sorry when I posted this I realised I didn't put the model, it's a 1978 GS1000EN Australian model.

[hampshirehog]

Yep, you can pull the head with the motor in the frame. Apologies for a Pom labelling an Oz a Yank

[Nessism]

OEM gasket sets are usually best as you know what you're getting. However, some of the pattern sets are fine - Athena (don't look as good but in fact are), Vesrah (some people don't like 'em but I've never had any probs)...

Forum collective knowledge is that Vesrah gaskets are very good but Athena are a step down - particularly the head gaskets. Not sure if this is constructive but thought like sharing.