Hi folks has any one come across oil in around the area of the spark plug lead on the front cylinder, also noticed that in the crank breather, the oil seems slightly cream in colour. That said the oil is clean in the engine looking at the oil though the inspection window. Bike is running and riding fine.
I had a similiar type of issue on the rear cyclinder on my 999, the spark plug chamber would slowly fill with oil over time. It turned out to be the valve cover (Rocker cover ) rubber gasket that was not put on correctly when it had the valve clearances checked. Cost about £18 for a new gasket.
Just replaced these gaskets on my 749 during the engine rebuild. If you dont have one, get a copy of the service manual...you can download the pdf. Sure its here somewhere on the forum. If not pm me you email address and i can send you a copy. Simply, Carefully remove the head cover and check the gasket for signs of damage. You can re-use these if its ok, but as mentioned the gaskets are cheap enough, so maybe worth just replacing it. You will see that the gasket sits around the plug chamber. This is where it will most likely be leaking from. Also make sure that the inner part sits on the dimples too. You will see what I mean when its off. I would also suggest that you run a thin bead of Three Bond around both surfaces, but be careful not to use too much of a bead as this could ooze out and block the oil port holes on the cams. You need to run a bead in the corners of the cams to ensure that these are sealed. It's generally a simple job and you will get a better idea when you see it. The creamy oil is common and caused by moisture. Most people just go for a good blast and get the oil hot. Once stopped remove the oil filler plug to allow moisture to vent. IMO this is nothing to worry about. Dave.
Make sure you replace the gasket rings/washers under the bolts as well. They won't seal properly if reused and are common place to seep even if they are new. A bit of liquid gasket will be good here too.
Thanks for all the info guys really much appreciated, this is why I joined this forum, i will order up gasket and seals etc. Removed the rocker cover there tonight found a few splits in gasket,and gasket looks a bit rough, so thinking that must be fault. Just that little bit of looking after the Ducati requires think that's part of owning one.
