Posted by Bruce Clarke on September 19, 1999 at 18:27:39:
I've noticed a slight oil leak from the front of the head gasket. I see the occasional drop of oil beading up on the cap bolt at the front of the cylinder; this is one of the two bolts that secures the head to the cylinder.
The last two weeks or so the leak has become more noticeable. I can wipe the cylinder clean with a rag, and when I come back from a short half hour or so of riding there's a drop or two of oil sitting on that bolt or clinging to the cylinder fins in this area. After taking a closer look it looks to me like the oil is weeping out of the front part of the head gasket.
I've been checking the oil level through the sight glass and it's fine.
My bike is going into the local shop on Tuesday for the 18,000 KM service. (I'm all thumbs and so always take my bike to the shop for service.) I've told the mechanic that I think the head gasket is leaking and needs to be replaced.
How much will this cost for labour and parts? In the past I have paid about $125 US to $150 US for the regular service, which involves a couple hours of labour, oil, a few minor parts, etc.