Cyl. Head Gasket - Looking 4 Advice
#1
08-21-2013, 02:10 PM
Cyl. Head Gasket - Looking 4 Advice
I seem to be developing a leak from what appears to me to be my front Cylinder Head Gasket. (09 FLHTCU 96 cu. in.)
Been hearing on and off what sounded like a rattle or ticking noise for the last 100 kM or so. It comes and goes and doesn't change frequency with engine revs. Actually more noticeable when more vibration is present. Sounded to me like it was coming from inside my fairing. So I took the fairing off to see if I had broken yet another bracket, only to find them to be in good condition.
Upon further investigation I noticed carbon forming where the head meets the cylinder. I'm thinking the gasket must be leaking.
In addition to replacing the cylinder head gasket I was thinking of drilling and adding a Manual Compression Release, since I'll have the head off anyways. (Thinking this will relieve some of the stress on the starter and compensator) I have already installed 2 SE compensators and I only have 66,000 kM (a little over 40,000 miles) Sometimes when starting I hear some strange noises coming from what I perceive to be the starter. I have read where CR's are installed in the after cylinder. I can't think of reasons why putting one in the fwd cyl. would be any different than putting it in the rear cyl? Maybe someone could tell me if there is any difference or why this would be a bad idea.
Also, if there is anything else I should check or replace while I have the Head off I would greatly appreciate the heads up.
Been hearing on and off what sounded like a rattle or ticking noise for the last 100 kM or so. It comes and goes and doesn't change frequency with engine revs. Actually more noticeable when more vibration is present. Sounded to me like it was coming from inside my fairing. So I took the fairing off to see if I had broken yet another bracket, only to find them to be in good condition.
Upon further investigation I noticed carbon forming where the head meets the cylinder. I'm thinking the gasket must be leaking.
In addition to replacing the cylinder head gasket I was thinking of drilling and adding a Manual Compression Release, since I'll have the head off anyways. (Thinking this will relieve some of the stress on the starter and compensator) I have already installed 2 SE compensators and I only have 66,000 kM (a little over 40,000 miles) Sometimes when starting I hear some strange noises coming from what I perceive to be the starter. I have read where CR's are installed in the after cylinder. I can't think of reasons why putting one in the fwd cyl. would be any different than putting it in the rear cyl? Maybe someone could tell me if there is any difference or why this would be a bad idea.
Also, if there is anything else I should check or replace while I have the Head off I would greatly appreciate the heads up.
Last edited by Nute; 08-21-2013 at 02:13 PM.
#2
10-09-2013, 12:03 PM
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#3
10-09-2013, 12:31 PM
Before I started tearing the top off, I would do a compression test to verify blown head gasket, especially if there is not a cadence change in the sound at different RPM's. What you think is a carbon build up might just be an accumulation of dirt, oil and road salts. So verify before you tear her down.
As far as the compression releases go....they never hurt, if you have the time and the money.
I would suggest that both be installed, not just one cylinder.
My 2 cents.
As far as the compression releases go....they never hurt, if you have the time and the money.
I would suggest that both be installed, not just one cylinder.
My 2 cents.
#4
10-09-2013, 01:13 PM
Do a compression test before you tear it down, it should find a head gasket leak.
I have a 103 w/ 255's and no compression releases. I retarded my cranking timing & never had an issue.
Since you have a 96 w/ 40K miles on it, if you do tear it down, I would suggest going to a bigger bore kit if you have the money.
I have a 103 w/ 255's and no compression releases. I retarded my cranking timing & never had an issue.
Since you have a 96 w/ 40K miles on it, if you do tear it down, I would suggest going to a bigger bore kit if you have the money.
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