Cam Cover Leakage Question

[eem1911]

I have a 2007 R3 with 36,ooo miles that is just starting to show signs of moisture primarily surrounding the lead cam cover bolt & may have a cam cover gasket breech as well because there is moisture directly along that seam, (although the origin of the leak seems to be the lead bolt & the moisture may have traveled down from the bolt & back along the seam). Any similar experiences or thoughts?

Thank-you,

Eric

 

[HeR3tic]

I have a 2007 R3 with 36,ooo miles that is just starting to show signs of moisture primarily surrounding the lead cam cover bolt & may have a cam cover gasket breech as well because there is moisture directly along that seam, (although the origin of the leak seems to be the lead bolt & the moisture may have traveled down from the bolt & back along the seam). Any similar experiences or thoughts?

Thank-you,

Eric

I suggest a new gasket soon. The Aluminum case might be affected by unequal heat dissipation negatively. And/Or you might self apply an extra torque amount. What is the PSI on cam cover bolts? 12-15??

Welcome to the forum. And I have little doubt more knowledgeable mechs will be along shortly.

 

[kmrmike]

The valve cover gasket is a pretty hardy piece as well a the bolt cover washers. The washers are rubber coated and I believe the torque is 5 ft lbs. Was the old gasket used after a valve adjustment? The gasket is kinda u- shaped and fits on the inside of the head as well as the outside. I think the whole setup is a pretty desent seal. possible the torque is not correct on the bolts...there is a number sequence to tightening them.

 

[eem1911]

It did have a valve adjustment but I never imagined that they would use the old gasket, I will have to check the invouice to see if they billed me for a new one. Is it common to re-use this gasket?

 

[kmrmike]

I bought new gasket and washers as I didn't know what I was getting into being first time changing it. I would consider using the old one next time as I could not tell it from new. The washers on the other hand were flattened out and I probably will buy new ones at some $3.00 each I think.
Im' sure the dealers will always tell you to replace with new

 

[Pig9r]

I agree the washers seem to be one use. Double check and make sure the leak is coming from the cam cover gasket and not the head gasket. There have been several with head gasket leaks, including mine.

 

[eem1911]

It is not the head gasket, it is the cam cover bolt and/or gasket that has been breached.

Thx

 

[zimtuff]

Mine started to get a small amount of seepage a few weeks back. It seemed to be worse at the rear of the cover.
I checked the bolts and the one closest to the rear was only finger tight.
I tightened the loose one and after a long ride on the weekend ,all seems ok.