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leaking oil.

Discussion in 'XJ Technical Chat' started by xdjfrick, Nov 23, 2009.

  1. xdjfrick

    xdjfrick Member

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    (first post!)greetings! i am the proud owner of a 1981 xj550h maxim(1981)13,000 miles, just bought the bike. It runs very strong, and is in great condition. I does have one problem. It leaks oil, only while running at operating rpms, not while sitting. Im pretty sure its coming from the valve cover gasket, and possibly from the head gasket. and MAYBE from one of the headers(not sure if thats possible). its not a lot, of oil it dosnt accumulate on the ground or anything its just stinky and smokes a little. is this something i should sweat, and try ti fix immediately? or is this just a characteristic of an old bike? I have not tried torquing the valve cover yet because i dont know the torque values and dont want to cause further damage. please share your thoughts. thanx in advance!
     
    xdjfrick, Nov 23, 2009
    #1
  2. bigfitz52

    bigfitz52 Well-Known Member Premium Member

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    Location:
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    DO NOT "torque" that valve cover!

    The valve cover bolts on the 550 (all the YICS motors actually) have STOP COLLARS that prevent overtightening. The bolts compress rubber and metal "donuts" that in turn press the cover against its gasket. Torque is 7.2 ft/lb and that's IT.

    You'll find some pictures here: http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=14827.html

    When replacing the gasket be sure to replace said "donuts" and it won't leak. While you're in there, you might want to at least check your valve clearances; this was often overlooked by POs because of the perceived difficulty.

    Other common sources of oil leaks on the 550s:

    Cam chain tensioner bolt o-ring and cam chain tensioner body gasket (located behind the cylinders but a leak here will "migrate" around front.)

    Tachometer drive gear o-ring and oil seal.
     
    bigfitz52, Nov 23, 2009
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