Replacing gaskets
 

Hell all,
This is probably a basic question, but I've been searching the archives and haven't been able to find an answer yet.

I have an 1989 XT600 which needed more adjustment than the clutch cable was able to handle. So, following the instructions in my Clymer manual I pulled the clutch cover and adjusted the clutch. Since the cover gasket came off in pieces I'm replacing that before I reassemble the bike. But the manual makes no mention of whether or not a sealant is needed with this gasket.

I found this thread

http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...h+gasket+cover

where the question was asked, but no answer was ever posted.
I'd appreciate any suggestions anyone might have. Thanks.

No sealant needed. The gasket is the sealant. Good luck.

yes, the gasket is the sealant. The gasket has some little amounts glue in certain parts....

don't forget to give almost the maximum clutch cable play on the "cluth lever quick adjust".

The "butterfly screw" has to have a small play. it cannot be tight!!!

If after closing everything and oil in the engine the clutch is loose you can use the quick adjust next to clutch lever...


(There is a small trick, you can put a very small amount of grease on the engine covers so you can take them apart without damaging the gasket AND it will help a lot because it helps to hold the gasket in place)

Vando :cool4:

Thanks for all the quick responses. This is the first time I've had a motorcycle torn down this far. Up to this point I've stuck to changing the oil and other external maintenance. Is there a type of grease that would be best to use or will any normal grease I'd get from the auto parts store work?

I don't remember if the grease my mechanic gave me was "special".. I only remember it was a thin grease with a very light color.. but I ain't 100% sure if it was a high temp grease.... ( I van confirm if it was a high temp grease once I head back to my island. I get there on the 29th)


Vando

I was given the same tip - but told I just rub a bit of engine oil on the gasket. This also helped it 'stick' so it didn't keep falling off while I was assembling the bits.

I've just yesterday disassembled the engine bits AGAIN - and can testify that this worked perfectly, since the gasket came off in one piece and in good shape.

(To be honest - I was also told not to use sealant - but one gasket kept leaking.. and when I added a miniscule bit of sealant, it fixed it. The reason why you're advised NOT to use it, is cos inevitably, some of the sealant squishes into the engine bit, and eventually deteriorates and contaminates your fluids. However - whomever owned my engine before me, obviously got a wholesale lot of sealant - EVERYTHING is sealed... and it hasn't yet broken anything)

You could also use a spray cooking realase agent. Us yanks have a brand called pam. Spray both sides of the gasket and bobs your uncle!