Motorcycle Repair: 72 XLH sportster 1000, sportster chopper, exhaust clamps

Question

72 chopper   QUESTION: Helo,
  I have this old sportster chopper that's far from new. I've had more than a few problems so far, but was able to handle them myself.
  Now I'm seeing smoke coming fron the front cyliner. It must be the head gasket, I'm guessing.
  My question is would it be possible to replace the head gasket on the front cylinder without removing the engine, or would I be better off just rebuilding the whole thing if I have to take the engine out to get at it? I really don't have the money to put thousands into it, but I love the bike and would hate to sell it.
  Thanks alot and I'm sending a picture so you can see why I'd hate to lose it, Jim

ANSWER: When you say you see smoke, are you talking about coming out the exhaust pipe or between the head and cylinder?
Mike

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: It looks like it's between the head and cylinder, I'll make sure next time it does it. It doesn't seem to do it constantly. It does it when it is warming up just after starting, the witish-blue smoke comes out of the exhaust pipe at the end not by the cylinder also. If it was coming out by the cylinder I'd just have to tighten the exhaust clamps or replace.
  It must be burning oil until it's gone, but if it's the head gasket it'll still be leaking when you can't see the smoke too, right?
I've had it sputter while driving only once or twice, it hasn't seemed to have any loss of power.
  So, back to the original question. What do you think?

         Thanks, Jim

Answer
If its coming out between the cylinder and head then you will have to replace the head gasket or it will get worse. You can remove the head without removing the motor. Once you have the head off you need to inspect the cylinder wall and mic the piston to see if you need a new one. i would also inspect the valve guides and make sure they are within specs.
Good luck and happy riding
Mike