SOHC.co.uk Forums > CB500/550

Oil leak advice??

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Jimbo550:
Hello all.  I'm after some advice regarding an oil leak from the head gasket. I've recently rebuilt the engine and been on the road for 200 miles but seem to have got an oil leak from the head gasket. I don't think it's the pucks as the oil only appears on the fin below the head gasket but I will check the pucks by lifting the rocker cover.  I'm thinking three options.
1. A slight tweak of the head bolts, risky I know but an easy option.
2. Lift the head and replace head gasket and o rings however it s a new one only 200 miles ago.
3. Lift head, skim head taking minimum off and replace with new gasket and o rings.

Your thoughts would be great fully received. Thanks in advance.

Jim

hairygit:
Option 1 would be my starting point, just check with a torque wrench to the upper figure recommended by Honda, but DO clean the already leaked oil after re torquing, as just wiping it will often seem like more is coming out as the engine warms up. Dont  be tempted to tighten above the recommended torque, it can do more harm than good :'(

Jimbo550:
I remember taking my time when torquing the head bolts down after the engine rebuild but maybe some heat and running in has ensettled things which require a re torque. It an easy enough job but might have to wait till Monday as I wanted to take the bike to BMAD this weekend.

hairygit:
If you ride the bike, the problem will only get worse, and you may end up blowing the head gasket if it isn't already blown, which is top end off, do you want to risk it? :(

matthewmosse:
My 500/4 had a slight leak when I bought it - just a weep that stained the barrels a bit. I ran it like that for the next 100,000 odd miles with no ill effects. I'd torqe the head bolts as they do settle sometimes just to be sure.

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