My first build - gasket?!

[Boredomfiend]

So I finished my first build about 4 days ago. Since then, I've been trying to break it in a bit, get the performance levels to balance so I'd know how it was running. Problem was, I couldnt get it to idle no matter what I tried, the choke ran better than the normal, and day by day the normal was running worse and worse.

Couldnt figure it out.

Today I went in to reinforce all my connections (I'm already using high grade steel posts, so I added a 2nd strong nut to each one with lock-tite, red or blue) and I noticed that the carberator was soaked with gas. I looked around until I saw the intake gasket... and could only find a couple shred left, on the outside of both bolts. Nothing left near the intake. I replaced it with a high-heat liquid gasket and sealed it back up. Now its running stronger than it did when I first put it together, and it idles like a champ.


Is it common for the intake gasket to last less than an hour of run-time? Was this a fluke or should I just automatically replace it as soon as my kit arrives?

More importantly (rather, more immediate..) should I be concerned about the other gaskets failing? Do I need to upgrade the engine and exhaust gaskets or are those usually ok?


TheDave
Long Beach, CA

If you want to see it, I have it listed here. Forget that its an ad, it just happens to be the only place I have pictures hosted right now. (unless you're interested or want to pass it on) =)
Motorized Mtn Bike - NEW Engine 66c

[Pablo]

Yeah the intake gasket is trash. You can make your own, coat it with gasket sealant and bolt it up.

[xlite]

Originally Posted by Boredomfiend

Is it common for the intake gasket to last less than an hour of run-time? Was this a fluke or should I just automatically replace it as soon as my kit arrives?

More importantly (rather, more immediate..) should I be concerned about the other gaskets failing? Do I need to upgrade the engine and exhaust gaskets or are those usually ok?

Out of a few dozen engines about half had intake gasket disintgrate within the first month or two. I replaced with Fedex envelope cardboard and not one problem so far. What the heck is that red stuff they make those out of?

Strangely no problems with other gaskets though.

[Denver Dave]

My exhaust gaskets need periodic replacing. The stock one usually only lasts me about 100 miles.

[Cabinfever1977]

the intake and exhaust gaskets fall apart fast,ive had no problems with the others.

[Junster]

Maniac Mechanic has an exellent copper exhaust gasket on his site. You'll never need another one till you have a second bike.

[Pablo]

Originally Posted by Junster

Maniac Mechanic has an exellent copper exhaust gasket on his site. You'll never need another one till you have a second bike.

I agree, a HD copper or aluminum exhaust gasket and no need to worry! Paper/fiber for exhaust doesn't cut it.

[AaronF]

I purchased the copper gasket from Manic Mechanic.Once installed (thinking it was sealed) 5 or so miles down the road there is oil spitting out all over from the gasket not being sealed correctly.Should I use some gasket sealer on the copper gasket or what should I do? Thanks.

[a_dam]

dubious, myself

[BarelyAWake]

Often times the mating surfaces themselves are flawed badly. Rough and unfinished - even the best of gaskets will have trouble sealing unless the area is dressed and made flush.