Reusing O-rings

  • daveo
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Reusing O-rings

26 Nov 2022 10:25
#877201
Would anyone consider reusing an o-ring or gasket in a top-end build, especially an 11009-1208?  
See ebay item 203882422182






 
1982 KZ1100-A2

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  • Warren3200gt
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Re: Reusing O-rings

26 Nov 2022 11:04
#877203
That o ring is often reused as its the head gasket that does the real work. 
Other gaskets use new wherever possible. 

Z1000J2 somewhat modified!

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  • Nessism
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  • willemZ900
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Re: Reusing O-rings

26 Nov 2022 11:07
#877205
me 2

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  • hardrockminer
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Re: Reusing O-rings

26 Nov 2022 14:02
#877214
I've re-used the o ring when it's in good condition.  I don't re-use head gaskets but for some strange reason I hang onto them if they come off the head in good condition.  It's kind of like keeping that worst pair of underwear because....well you never know when you might need them in an emergency.
I have several restored bikes along with a 2006 Goldwing with a sidecar. My wife has a 2019 Suzuki DR 650 for on and off road.

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  • blipco
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Re: Reusing O-rings

26 Nov 2022 15:19
#877219
Exactly! I still have this Triumph triple head gasket hanging in my shed for what reason I’ll never know. I should throw it out.
But I may need it someday.
"Swim against the current, even a dead fish can go with the flow"-somebody (I forget Who)

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  • Dr. Gamma
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Re: Reusing O-rings

26 Nov 2022 17:47
#877224
The only gasket I have ever reused is the  Z1, Kz900, and early model Kz1000 valve cover gasket. Of all the Kz900's/Kz1000's that came down with a head gasket leak I have looked at it always seem to be the that center O-ring that started leaking. I never reused one on any of my builds.
I also smear some Three Bond TB-1211 on the center o-ring just to give it some extra sealing ability.  Yea I know the factory manual doesn't tell you to do that, but I do!!!
None of my KZ motors ever had a head gasket leak over the years...........

 
1972 H2 750 Cafe Racer built in 1974.
1976 KH400 Production Road Racer.
1979 Kz1000 MK. II Old AMA/WERA Superbike.
1986 RG500G 2 stroke terror.
1986 GSXR750RG The one with the clutch that rattles!

Up in the hills near Prescott, Az.

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  • DFIGPZ
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Re: Reusing O-rings

28 Nov 2022 12:50
#877276
I do not reuse orings my moto if you cannot afford to do it right you damn sure cannot afford to do it wrong.
1984 750 Turbo

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