Motorcycle Repair: valve cover gaskets, honda shadow 1100, side fins

Question
I have a 1998 Honda Shadow 1100 and the valve cover gaskets are leaking. How do you replace them?

Answer
Jesse,This is not an easy task.There are side fins and dectotive covers to come off. Also there are what are called cam plugs that are glued into place also the bolts that hold the valve cover on also are long and go down through the cylinder. There are no gaskets as such but and adhesive type sealer between the two halves to make a bearing type carrier for the cam. The tank and seat have to come off and even the air cleaner system and plenum tubes. If you dont feel comfortable pulling all this off then find some one or a shop that is trustworthy and have them do the work.That way if it leaks afterwards its on them again to do it right.