Instructions/Links needed for push rod conversion and seal

[Rlauchard]

Hi,

Me again...the newb that doesn't work on motors or cars, but is trying to learn...now I'm in it (I think). 1981 XS650SH.

So, I'm leaking oil...not a lot, but obviously as I ride longer the more oil that leaks. Oil is dripping from the bottom frame and the bolts under the engine. I took the left crankcase off and the stator wires have oil on them as though it is dripping from the seal.

Here is a link to a video showing my push rod seal and the play with the outer push rod. I believe that this is the culprit as I'm not seeing leaks from my gasket areas.

Responses needed:
1. Do you agree that this is too much play and will cause oil leaking?
2. I would like to convert to a single pushrod. I can't find a good post on how...I think it would go like this...can you confirm?

- remove the outer pushrod (20 in image below)​

- remove the middle ball bearing (18 in image below)​

- remove the inner pushrod (19 in image below)​

- replace with http://www.mikesxs.net/product/39-6511.html​

- make sure that the 'smaller' end is in the worm gear​

3. I would need a new clutch pushrod bushing (http://www.mikesxs.net/product/01-2020.html) and a new clutch pushrod oil seal (http://www.mikesxs.net/product/01-9019.html) and should follow the directions on mikesxs (http://www.mikesxs.net/faq.html) in the clutch section.

As always, I'm scared, but eager...thanks for the assistance. You guys are great!

 

[5twins]

You've got it exactly. Here's some tips for seal replacement, any seal. Use them, they really work .....

http://www.650motorcycles.com/XSseals.html

When you're done, lightly grease the exposed section of the new pushrod. It's just plain steel and will rust up if water gets on it before chain lube fling-off gets a chance to coat it. I also grease the section of the shift shaft that runs through the side cover .....

 

[Rlauchard]

Hey 5Twins...thanks....did you watch my video? I think I screwed up on that outer pushrod when I had it out a couple months ago. Is that in backwards? Also...would that cause a lot more 'bounce' in that push rod that would reduce the quality of the seal?

 

[5twins]

I don't see a link to your video so, no, I didn't watch it.

 

[Rlauchard]

I think this calls for two forehead slaps....or maybe doh! and doh!

 

[5twins]

Yes, you had it in backwards and yes, I think it wiggles too much. I would replace the bushing. I don't know if having the rod in backwards would cause more wobble but it may not fit into the worm gear as it's supposed to. That would mean the adjuster screw would need to be re-set to compensate. Once you install the new rod properly, you should re-set that worm gear adjuster screw, it will probably need it.

 

[Rlauchard]

awesome, thx!