Hitchcocks Forum

Having tinkered and got the recently acquired Bullet 350 otr managed an amble 60-70miles today, dodging showers and enjoying some minor and "b" roads and it rode quite well - in the 40-50mph range. Had only planned to do a few miles, but as it seemed to be going well kept going.

Gears all worked fine, clutch too - quite surprised it was almost 'snickety snick' maybe previous owner knew how to adjust it, but was very fine....that was a bit unexpected ???

After a stop to sample a coffee and bacon butty, returned to the bike to set off. That's when I noticed some oil on the fins on the head (below the rocker boxes) - but as there seemed plenty in the tank ambled home.

On getting back there was still some oil/dampness, and the carb bottom was a bit oily....suspecting a leak at the cylinder heard, cant see anything from anywhere else......is this:

--Normal....well I know oil tight is normal, but is this common.

--Easy to fix (what's needed gaskets? copper or sumfink else?).

--Engine 'life' threatening (if I keep an eye on the oil levels) - until I understand how to fix and what's needed

--Just a nuisance

Overall, though, bike ran very well (apart from that) - a very pleasent way to travel, therapeutic, comfy, rode very well and seemed to handle fine (albeit low) speeds. Generally, quite pleased.

Regards

Mark

Hello MHSILVERW. IMHO if its Just Wetting The Fins and No Puddles on the Floor ..No Worry.. Check its not from The Banjo Bolts (More Worrying).. Mine Has Weeped for years (On Different Enfields) From Just above The Tappet Cover (Where they are the additional holes are in the Head Gasket For the Push Rods)....Others Might Disagree But If its Leaking Less Than an Egg Cup full from Genral Area's in a Week of reguler use Dont Worry!.... Lastly If Its On the cylinder Head?/ Its Not Blow Back out of Your Comprrison Valve :if You use it??..all IMHO ofcourse..(Expert along in a Minuite)...Have Fun:Cheers Craig

Yes the banjo unions for the top end oil feed are a bugger for seeping. I've found aluminium washers are the best. Copper work hardens too quickly and the ones with rubber seals are good but only seem to work the once.