The front rocker box on my 98 RoadKing is leaking oil. I have a service manual but wanted to ask here for any tips on this repair.

 

I got a '98 FLSTC and when I had the cam brg and tappets replaced last year, my guy refused to put in adjustable push rods. I objected saying I didn't want the rocker covers disturbed because I didn't want any leaks. He said HD changed the gasket design and the new ones don't leak. So far everything is tight. You may have the original design which I believed were made from paper. You might want to get onto Harley Tech Talk to get more details. That forum is very technically oriented.

 

Rocker boxes are really 3 different parts: upper, middle and lower. If oil is leaking from upper to middle or middle to lower, it's just a take bolts off, replace gaskets and put bolts on. If it's the lower cover the one that leaks, it's a bit more complicated, as I think that you have to remove the lifters and pushrods, with the work that it has. I've never done it but I think that with the manual won't be so much difficult to do it.

Good luck

--
Javi

 

I have used 3 different styles of gaskets for the uppers, cork, rubber and a silicone-like one, my experience is that it matters most to install them properly to avoid leaks. If it is your uppers leaking, its not too bad a job, but if its the lowers, you're in for more work. Try to find out exactly where it is leaking and go from there. I have had the best luck with James gaskets. JMHO,YMMV, etc.

Bob

 

Has the gaskets been replaced before? If not, then you can easily replace and be careful about torque spec and pattern to ensure you don't warp them.

If gaskets have been replaced, you now have to check your rocker coverparts for warping.

dave

 

I have a 1998 Road King and just changed the gaskets, I bet it is the lower one and thatone is paper.upper and middle are easy to change lower is a real pain,

Good luck

 

I'm pretty sure it's the lower one. Thanks for the comments.

 

I did the lower on the rear cylinder of my 98 Fat Boy.

It really was pretty easy.
Except for the upside down part. Don't ask.

The front Cylinder should be much easier. I did not remove the lifters I did lift out the push rods for clearance. I see you said you have a manual. Best money ever spent. Follow the directions they are pretty clear.

 

the lower rocker gaskets (bottom of the three piece stack) from H-D now are one-piece metal. work very well.

Be super fussy about cleaning old gasket gunk. Blue Hylomar is always your friend.

ALWAYS replace EVERY rubber one at the top. Be careful about when you torque them down that the middle section does not move.

ALWAYS replace the fibre washers on the top rocker box bolts

Don't over-torque those.

 

Thanks.

Should I buy a Harley gasket kit or the James gasket kit? Is it one kit per cylinder or one kit for both cylinders?