Motorcycle Repair: oil leaks, valve cover gasket, gasket surfaces

Question
I have a 1980 honda 900 customs---I have had it for 14 yrs. it has always had a small oil leak underneath--lately it has started slowly leaking some oil around the valve covers and the bolts that hold the covers on--anyhow not real bad but I would like to know if there are any type of oils that can be added to the engine to reduce oil leakage --I know they make certain additive to help auto engines--thanks for any help

Answer
Hi Bill,

Several products are available to add to your engine oil to seal oil leaks. These products cause "all" oil seals to soften and expand (swell) to prevent leakage. This is not good for the engine.

Corrective method is to replace the defective seal. Not a difficult task for most seals.


The leaky valve cover gasket is likely dry-rotted/brittle and needs replaced.

Replace the valve cover gasket and tach drive gasket. Clean gasket/engine surfaces. Sparingly apply Hondabond to gasket surfaces. Torque valve cover bolts according to service manual specs and tightening order.

See microfiche parts views and order manuals at: www.bikebandit.com

Respectfully,
Mark Shively