Topic: 1972 CB500 - Replacing Head Gasket and O-Rings for Oil Leak

[jmelche2]

I have to replace the head gasket and o-rings on my 1972 CB500 and looking for recommendations on a good quality gasket and o-rings that will solve my oil leak issue.  Leak isn't too bad but I don't like it.  Gasket recommendations?  Gaskets to avoid?  Is the OE gasket good quality?  Any other advice appreciated.  Thanks, Jim

[seanbarney41]

OEM Honda gaskets and o-rings are always your best bet if available...no idea about that on the 500's

[John Park]

Do you recommend using any type of sealant? hondabond or hylomar pl32 fo the pucks?

[bryanj]

Also if you do not pull the cylinders and replace the base gasket/O rings it will leak there shortly after

[John Park]

Also if you do not pull the cylinders and replace the base gasket/O rings it will leak there shortly after

Is that because the pressure in the oil changes?

[Duanob]

OEM Honda gaskets and o-rings are always your best bet if available...no idea about that on the 500's

+1 

[Duanob]

Do you recommend using any type of sealant? hondabond or hylomar pl32 fo the pucks?

I used it on the pucks, just don't go overboard. I also used permatex copper spray on my HG both sides and haven't had a leak yet.

[jonda500]

Just my two cents worth: I am an install head gaskets (and base gaskets) dry type of guy. Using oem gaskets and new o rings, this has always worked for me. I have had my head off three times (valve springs kept breaking!) and haven't replaced the base gasket yet. The last time, I re-used the head gasket too as it hadn't been on for very many miles and came off cleanly without damage. This last time my cylinders accidentally lifted a little(I had missed one of the little bolts!) but as the base gasket didn't tear, I didn't bother to replace it - it's the same one the bike had there when I got it 17 years ago. Now after a long ride if I rub my fingers around the base of the cylinder on the right side my fingers do get a little oil residue on them, next time I will replace it for sure. When the barrels lifted I really should have replaced it then... I guess I must have been too impatient as usual 
John
I have read more than once in here that using sealer on oem head gaskets interferes with their ability to seal - that silver color on the gasket IS sealer!

[seanbarney41]

+1 Jonda, if there is one spot one these bikes that doesn't leak, it's the base gasket








it's just basic mechanics..."if it ain't broke, don't fix it"