Topic: Changing Alternator Cover Gasket (Possible Without Removing Trans Cover?)

[RogueM3]

I got one of my 76 750s started up today and runs well, but needs some tinkering.

Unfortunately, the leak I previously thought to be isolated to only the Trans Cover Gasket (which I replaced) is also coming from the Alternator cover gasket.

I've read people saying that they remove the trans cover when they change the alternator cover -- but it seems their reasoning is always "in order to connect the wires".

In my case, I just want to swap the gasket & will be removing the alternator cover but leaving the wires connected. So the question becomes, with that in mind, can I leave the trans cover installed while removing and replacing the alternator cover gasket.

I've tried this once before on another SOHC 750 I fixed up and when I went to reinstall the alternator gasket it seemed to fight with the trans cover on reinstall. I ended up changing out both gaskets on that one but this time given I don't have a spare trans gasket and already changed it 1x, would love to only touch the alternator cover and gasket.

Any help would be much appreciated!

[Kevnz]

As I understand it, there is, or should be, no oil in the alternator, hence no oil leak. If oils is leaking from there, you may have bigger issues, like crank seals gone.

[754]

There is oil in there.  The wires are connect under chain cover. They run thru a sort of tunnel   toward inside and above trans cover. That can stay on.
 It may also be leaking where the rubber around the wires is, where wires exit the dynocover..

[Kevnz]

My mistake, not familiar with 750's

[RogueM3]

Thanks guys. Yes, I know there should be a small amount of oil but my question is:

Can I remove and reinstall the alternator cover (after adding the new gasket) without ever removing the trans cover?  Or is there something about the trans cover being installed that prevents the alternator gasket from reinstalling correctly?

Thanks!

[754]

As far as i know wires come out through tunnelm they may be stiff. Cover and gasket should fit, make sure it lays flat if its an aftermarket gasket.

[Henning]

Yes you can; I replaced a broken alternator cover many years ago without touching the trans cover. It may be a bit fiddly as both the stator and field coil are attached to the alt cover and you will have to deal with old hardened wires (as mentioned).

[RogueM3]

Thank you both!