Quick cylinder head cover gasket question that I can't seem to find an answer to.

[avastyematey]

Hi guys, another question. Please help if you can.
I have a 1985 GS 550 L. I am replacing the cylinder head gasket, the one with the half moons, and I can't seem to figure out if I need to apply any oil or cylinder goop or anything.

Please advise. I just want to ride my bike!

[Big T]

Head gasket goes on dry - do not put anything on the gasket and correctly torque it down

[Steve]

I thought you were asking a question about the cylinder head gasket?

Now you mention half-moons.

The half-moons are NOT part of the cylinder head gasket, they are part of the valve cover gasket.
If THAT is the one you are doing, some feel comfortable using a touch of sealer on the curved surfaces of the half-moons ONLY. Some will also use a light film of sealer between the gasket and the valve cover, but many prefer to use it dry or lightly-oiled on both sides. You can use clean motor oil or WD-40 to wet the gasket, either will work just fine.

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[avastyematey]

thank you.

[gearhead13]

are you talking cylinder head gasket or valve cover gasket (with the 1/2 moons)

[Nessism]

The 1985 550 has a rubber valve cover gasket that has the half moons molded into the gasket. I recommend using sealer on the gasket to affix it to the cover, but don't put anything on the side that contacts the cylinder head. That's the way Suzuki did it, or at least that's how the 750ES is which has a similar engine.

[avastyematey]

my mistake, i am talking about the valve cover gasket. I have learned so much over the past couple of months that I get things confused sometimes.

[Steve]

my mistake, i am talking about the valve cover gasket. I have learned so much over the past couple of months that I get things confused sometimes.

That's why we occasionally ask for clarification.

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