Change the valve cover gasket without removing engine

[PHILIP2908]

I posted about this before but couldn't find the thread.
Basically the 750 is a DK Special requiring loads of work and parts including a new head gasket. Engine removed, head skimmed, put together and ran fine; except for a big oil leak from front of the valve cover gasket. Apparently it is easy to put these on upside down and because the cam box is not symmetrical, it will leak - well Haynes never said 'owt about it.
Looking at it; the engine would have to come out again as the valve cover cannot be lifted off in situ. I couldn't face that as I've been in hospital having a new valve (heart) of my own so can't lift anything heavy - break the ribs again see. Ask Julie.
So I saw some chappie on You Tube change the gasket by undoing the 14 screws and lifting it up. So that's what I did (see photos if they made it through) and was fairly fiddly including having to remove the coils which was a right pain.
Just ordered a new genuine gasket off DS for £20 (WHAT !!), and will fit it and let you know the outcome.
Cheers
Phil

[hairygit]

Hate to say this, but I can see you getting really pissed off with trying to get it over the can carriers and sprocket without damaging it, and £20 a time is a lot of cash to rip! Maybe you'd be better offering a mate or half sensible neighbour a few beers to help you out and back in with the engine, save a lot of cut fingers and swearing!

[Nurse Julie]

Don't lift anything heavier than a cup of tea......leave the engine alone for now, it will still be there when your fully recovered.

[Yoshi823]

I had to replace a leaking tacho drive oil seal & had to remove the engine just for that 50p seal 

So I modified the frame not long afterwards

[neilg]

If it's any consolation I did the same many years ago. I managed to swop the gasket without lifting the engine out. It was very awkward and a friend is a big help so they can hold the cover and move it about whilst you fiddle, (there's a polite word), about with the gasket.

Good luck

Neil G 

[MrDavo]

I had to replace a leaking tacho drive oil seal & had to remove the engine just for that 50p seal 

I got the tacho oil seal out without removing anything, after a very nice man on this forum told me how to do it by making a tiny hole in it, then using a self tapping screw.

[Menno]

I'm building a 750 now and I hope that this will make my life easier: