Cylinder head spark plug hole gasket tear

[perniculous]

I'm doing some maintenance and there is a small tear in the spark plug hole gasket. Hopefully you can see it there in the middle of the picture. Is this any big deal or should I replace it?

Thanks.

[jingdog]

Hmm is this a trick question? If the engine isnt already suffering already from the usual BMW malidies hot oil all over the sparkplug, connector, and wiring will probably do a fair immitation! I say change it!

[DrPaul]

If the tear is limited to the sleeve portion of the gasket, then you should have no problem with leakage since it is the flat part that is compressed between the valve cover and the cylinder head to form the seal. However, if it continues to tear apart you may end up with bits of rubber loose in the oil pan and possibly blocking things they shouldn't. Not an emergency but I'd replace it soon.

[MotorradMike]

My policy is to fix EVERYTHING I know is broken. It makes for a very reliable bike.

[perniculous]

Ok, thanks. I think I will get it together to test today then run out to the dealership tomorrow to pick up replacements.

:thumb

[JHGilbert]

My policy is to fix EVERYTHING I know is broken. It makes for a very reliable bike.

Ditto.

Everytime I find something broken, it's on my next order. It takes a while to sort out a new(used) bike and the additional expenses are a pain in the butt. The end result is that you gain confidence in the bike and aren't worrying about things going wrong.

[lkchris]

Is this any big deal or should I replace it?

It's amazing how many times this question appears on motorcycle/car forums.

Ask yourself if you want the mechanics at your airline asking this question.

Ask an engineer if designs s/he is familiar with include parts that aren't needed.

Next time you hear from a "mechanic" about all the money s/he is going to save you, run away.

[perniculous]

BMW makes airplanes?

Hey mods, any way to keep dumbasses like me from asking questions!??!

[JimMoore]

If I had a spare, I'd put it in. If not, I'd button it up and see if it leaked. If not, I'd repalce the donut next 6K. Simple.

[bikerfish1100]

If I had a spare, I'd put it in. If not, I'd button it up and see if it leaked. If not, I'd repalce the donut next 6K. Simple.

dang Jim. There you go again, being all logical and stuff.

[bjm]

Most definitely replace it. Quick & easy. If I didn't I wouldn't be able to stop thinking it was going to leak. :thumb

[perniculous]

Mission accomplished and no airline passengers were injured. :laugh

It's nice to have a dealer (BMW Grand Rapids) only a short hop away!

[bjm]

BMWGR is a good dealer, too. I purchased a K11RS from them a few years back and they were very good to me. Very nice, helpful & knowledgable.