Topic: Best source for a CB500 head gasket?

[zoo mob]

Just bought a 72 CB500 motor to swap into a 74 550, and it look like the head gasket has a leak, figured now is the time to replace it, looked at my local Honda dealer's fiche, and the gasket alone is $56.00, does this seem high? Anything else I should replace while in there? And any idea on a cheaper source or aftermarket gasket that is just as good?

Thanks

[steam-powered man]

the base gasket might be displaced when removing the head, so i'd consider replacing that.  for sure i'd also replace pucks and all "o"rings.  i'd re-torque the head bolts after running for a bit.
bobp

[neudl]

I used an Athena top-end gasket set - about $100 - its the same set as for the CB550.  I have had no leaks over the last couple of years since replacing all the top end gaskets.  As long as you have the top end apart, I would replace all of the top end gaskets, o-rings, and pucks (which will come with the set).  Also may be a good time to replace any other worn top-end parts - cam chain, guide, etc.  When I replaced the top-end gaskets I also had the head machined smooth, and replaced all of the pistons and rings.  CB500 rings were hard to find, and the set I ordered spent almost two months lost in transit.

[MoTo-BunnY]

Honda OEM (via Honda Direct Line):

6 - GASKET, CYL HD 12251-374-306  (replaces 12251-323-005)  -  $54.37

http://www.hdlparts.com/fiche_section_detail.asp?section=122830&category=MOTORCYCLES&make=HONDA&year=1972&fveh=2936

[turboguzzi]

david silver sells them for 25 british pounds  but who says you need one?

 if its the typical CB500 oil leak at the head joint (and 99% it is) then those are the small rubber o-rings that have dried, not the main gasket.  there are forum threads that offer advice on that problem

pulling the head AND the cyl block AND changing rings as some people recommend here is WAYYYY over the top IMHO. You can get the head out without disturbing the bottom gasket and even if you do, that gasket is not so bound to leak anyway.

TG