Head gasket replacement

[Joeywhat]

I understand that this is to address the oil issues. If I'm also seeing coolant loss then consider other actions.

Correct.

Also, if you're doing the valve cover gaskets yourself (it's not too difficult), do make sure that the gaskets don't slip out of the groove or otherwise come out of place when replacing the valve covers, it's fairly easy for those to come out of place. A very small amount of tacky grease can help keeping it in place if needed.

 

[Worldtrekker]

Correct.

Also, if you're doing the valve cover gaskets yourself (it's not too difficult), do make sure that the gaskets don't slip out of the groove or otherwise come out of place when replacing the valve covers, it's fairly easy for those to come out of place. A very small amount of tacky grease can help keeping it in place if needed.

Good info, thanks!

 

[SupraSabre]

I understand that this is to address the oil issues. If I'm also seeing coolant loss then consider other actions.

A couple of things.

1. Watch the rubber mat above the covers. They like to get caught in with the valve cover gaskets.
2. Make sure you are aware of the torque that is required on the bolts, that hold down the Valve Cover.

 

[wjbertrand]

So many questions. Does the engine oil look milky? Do you see an oil ring or floating droplets of oil in the coolant reservoir or coolant filler neck? Was a compression test performed? If no to all the above, I’d just ride it for now. At such low mileage someone would almost have to drain the coolant out on purpose to make the bike overheat. I’m pretty sure a brand new ST1300 could go that mileage with no maintenance at all and probably be fine, let alone overheat.

 

[Worldtrekker]

So many questions. Does the engine oil look milky? Do you see an oil ring or floating droplets of oil in the coolant reservoir or coolant filler neck? Was a compression test performed? If no to all the above, I’d just ride it for now. At such low mileage someone would almost have to drain the coolant out on purpose to make the bike overheat. I’m pretty sure a brand new ST1300 could go that mileage with no maintenance at all and probably be fine, let alone overheat.

Not sure about the first two questions but a compression test was performed with all 4 cylinders around 180. Here is the link with photos and mechanic notes: https://u.pcloud.link/publink/show?code=kZjKuK5Z0b2z8Bpx0Q7UpCrvSwDs4uhz8RHk
I agree just ride it for now after replacing the valve cover gaskets.

 

[SMSW]

I ordered the valve cover gaskets. Based on what I'm seeing to only do this. Then monitor oil consumption and coolant level changes.

Do you have a manual? Are you aware you are supposed to apply a sealant/adhesive to the half moon scallops on the cylinder head before you put the gasket in place? This seems to be a Honda thing. My 89 Accord has the same requirement.

The valve cover bolts are notoriously difficult to get into their threaded hole. Since the cylinders are angled, you have to get the bolt going in perpendicular to the valve cover. Cross threading is easy, and if you over torque the bolt, you can break it off. It has often been suggested to replace the rubber washers under the bolt head because they compress with age and heat. No idea if yours are squashed w/ so little run time.

 

[Worldtrekker]

Do you have a manual? Are you aware you are supposed to apply a sealant/adhesive to the half moon scallops on the cylinder head before you put the gasket in place? This seems to be a Honda thing. My 89 Accord has the same requirement.

Yes I have the printed factory shop manual. Thanks for the tip!