Topic: I need help troubleshooting an oil leak

[Kframe]

This afternoon I've been cleaning the swingarm and countersprocket area in preparation for installing new sprockets, chain and tires. 
I'm not sure where all of the sludge came from, this bike is filthy!  I'm not sure if the countershaft seal is leaking or if the sludge is from chain lube/oil.

But that's not what this question is about. I found that there is an engine oil leak from under this thing.



I don't know what this component is, but it looks like the oil is seeping out from where that part mates with the engine case. 

My question is if I get a new gasket can I just pull that component off and bolt it back on , or is this repair more involved?
And what is that component?
Any ideas where to get the gasket?

Thanks!

-K

[cookindaddy]

Which of your machines is this a pic of? It looks like an oil pump but does not look like my SOHC 78 750K.

[Kframe]

Thanks for the reply.
This is on the 74 CB550.

-K

[Jordan]

It is the oil pump and if memory serves there is an "O" ring seal. But since I am not sure wait for more responses. Jordan

[Kframe]

Thanks!
So, for sure I'd have to drain the engine oil first, but after that, could I just unbolt it, pull it off, replace the o-ring and bolt it back on, or because of the impeller (?) or other stuff would this be a bigger job? 
-K

[Jordan]

Yes, I believe if you drain the oil remove what looks like 3 mushroom head screws not those flathead ones, the pump should come straight off, clean the mating surfaces replace the o-rings or gasket whichever it has and reinstall. I just looked at mine off a 73CB500 and there is actually 3 "O" rings 2 small and one large. The wire coming off the top is the oil sensor. "O" ring sizes 14mm, 47mm.

[Jordan]

Also if the screws are hard to remove use a handheld impact driver with a #3 philips bit. Is a great tool usually loosens screws without messing up the head just a wack or two should suffice. Also if the oil is leaking from that front cover with the flathead screws there is an "O" ring there too.

[Kframe]

Awesome!
I've got an impact driver but no bits.
So I'll pick some up when I go for an o-ring.
I wish I had one whan I took off the sprocket cover. Those were very tight. I used a proper screwdriver and gave a couple taps with my ball peen hammer and broke 'em loose.
I got lucky and didn't bugger the heads.

-K

[bryanj]

You cant just  get any "O" rings you need the right ones

2 x small ones

1 X big one, look up the parts on an on line system

[Kframe]

You cant just  get any "O" rings you need the right ones

2 x small ones

1 X big one, look up the parts on an on line system

Looks like bikebandit has o-ring seals for the oil pump on the 550, I'm going to take that part # to my local Honda dealer and see if they stock it.
I'll probably get impact driver bits at Northern Tool or Sears.
-K

[Jordan]

I bought a box of o rings, auto grade, metric sizes from Pep Boys for a few bucks and there are a few sizes that are right, It is true that the 70's cb's have some special o rings such as the rocker arm cover and oil pan, but the oil pump ones seem pretty standard in size and thickness. It is worth exploring alternative sources as the dealer is usually outrageous price wise.   

[Kframe]

Well my local Honda shop doesn't have that o-ring in stock, so I ordered one from Service Honda. 
I haven't used them in a few years, so I thought I'd give them a try again. 
Price including shipping was just a bit less than Bike Bandit. 
Of course, I had to click on a few other items too, to make the shipping worth it.   
-K