Triumphrat

KitNYC · 12-03-2012, 01:17 AM

The more I read, the more I think I need to investigate my oil usage further rather than just getting new rings and assuming that will fix it. I'm thinking I'll pull the head to measure everything at the 72k service, then order whatever parts I need to replace and pull it again.

Obviously, I'd prefer not to replace the head gasket twice, so I'm thinking of using the copper spray from Permatex and reusing the old gasket temporarily. What say you all? Is this the dumbest idea I've ever had, or will the copper spray hold for a couple thousand mile?

Cheers,
-Kit

lovecuba · 12-03-2012, 03:35 AM

is most certainly single use only and nothing will retrieve that situation once the torque is taken off it and then the gasket removed. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news.

Daddy Mac · 12-03-2012, 04:01 PM

Hey Kit
I don't have any experience with reusing head gaskets, but I have used the copper gasket adheasive spray and I can tell you that it works very well. If you're still in the diagnostic phase why not give it a try?

CharlieS · 12-03-2012, 04:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lovecuba

is most certainly single use only and nothing will retrieve that situation once the torque is taken off it and then the gasket removed. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news.

I'm with lovecuba on this one...

triplestrength · 12-03-2012, 04:27 PM

I'm also with the others, remember also the engine has wet liners if they move you'll end up with a sump full of coolant.
Sorry:-(

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XL1200R · 12-03-2012, 09:16 PM

I say go for it. I realize there are heat cycles to take into account, but when you assemble to clay the valves, you don't throw those head gaskets away just because they've been torqued down. Definitely not a permanent solution to anything, but that's not what you're looking for.

lovecuba · 12-04-2012, 04:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by XL1200R

I say go for it. I realize there are heat cycles to take into account, but when you assemble to clay the valves, you don't throw those head gaskets away just because they've been torqued down. Definitely not a permanent solution to anything, but that's not what you're looking for.

Used head gaskets are always thrown away (unless they are solid copper), just as the workshop manual says.

triplestrength · 12-04-2012, 09:09 AM

If it was solid copper they could be reannealed, but if their the same as the 885 engines then their not.

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Bruce C · 12-04-2012, 06:28 PM

How many dollars and how many headaches have you had with this bike?? Now is not the time to risk another bottom end by saving a few bucks.

steventhechef · 12-04-2012, 11:03 PM

Normally I'd have a witty thing to say, not this time

Replace it Kit

I used to use Copper spray when I had head trouble on my Leyland Minis. If I ever pulled the head or replaced the gasket I always used the Copper spray. It is an excellent product but I wouldn't use it on a second hand gasket.