Motorcycle Repair: Head Gasket, suzuki madura, head gasket


Question
Hi Mark,
 Just noticed today that i have oil in my antifreeze, I imagine this is the head gasket.  There is no evidence of antifreeze in the engine oil. I am wondering short of taking the head off is there a way to be sure that the head gasket is the problem and not possibly something like an O ring on the water pump?  I am driving a 85 Suzuki Madura 700 with a V4 engine.  Thanks in advance for any help.

Answer
Hi Mark,

Perform a cylinder leak-down test and/or a raditor pressure test.

The leak down test will determine the sealing properties of the combustion chamber and help locate the source of any leaks by the sound of escaping air or bubbles.

Radiator test will do same for cooling system.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively