Every time you perform regular service or repair on your motorcycle that involves gaskets and seals, be prepared to replace them–even if they look fine. By installing new engine components with old seals and gaskets, you accelerate the wear of your new parts and jeopardize the integrity of your engine. To save time and frustration, identify the seals and gaskets you will need to complete the job. What works for your buddy’s bike may not work for yours, so be sure to check your manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations for oils, sealants and additives needed for proper installation.
Gaskets are designed for a single use. Once they are exposed to the pressure and heat of your engine, they compress to tightly seal components together. We all know that parts never go back together they way they came apart, so reusing an old, compressed gasket leaves you vulnerable to gaps that will allow oil, water and grime to make their way in and do a lot of damage to your engine.
When you remove the old gasket, avoid using abrasives cleaners or tools to remove the bits of old gasket from mating surfaces. Wire or steel wool discs may quickly remove old gasket material, but you run the risk of getting metal fragments embedded in engine components or your oil. Nylon or plastic scrubbers may seem like a gentler alternative, but these materials also shed harmful fibers that you do not want left behind. Remember that sharp tools can gouge metal surfaces, causing damage and affecting the integrity of your seal. If you find yourself faced with a stubborn gasket, try soaking it in WD-40 or a commercial gasket remover to soften material and aid removal. Using this method may take a little longer, but it’s a worthwhile investment of your time.
At Gasket King, our goal is to keep vintage and classic motorcycles running by building the largest gasket database available to bike builders and passionate riders. Choose from our thousands of in-stock gaskets, or send us your specifications, and we will custom fabricate the exact gasket you need. We specialize in fabricating high-quality composite fiber replacement gaskets in the U.S.A. from the finest quality American materials. We carry gaskets for your favorite classic like Honda, KTM, Kawasaki, Bultaco, Suzuki, Royal Enfield, Triumph and more. Our gaskets meet or exceed OEM specifications and are backed by our Gasket King guarantee. Call call 817.562.8178 or shop online today to see our full line of quality replacement gaskets for your vintage motorcycle, and get back to what you love most about riding the open road.
