Valve Cover Gaskets

Hey all.

I'm trying to get everything that I'll need in order so that when I get my shims, I'll be set to go and re-assemble my bike. My valve cover gasket, can anybody tell me if this valve cover gasket will fit my bike, which is a 650 LTD?

Does the LTD take a special gasket?

Post edited by: KZSteelers, at: 2007/06/08 13:28

i wouldnt think there would be any differance in an ltd head.look at your valve cover and go from there;)

The LTD valve cover gasket isn't different from other 650 models, but that may or may not be the one you need. However, to guarantee you get the correct one, you should get in the habit of checking www.z1enterprises.com besides, Z1E has them cheaper than the eBay source, even with shipping:)

That one is right for your bike but is not OEM Kawasaki. A Kawasaki gasket is expensive I'll admit however I've never had an aftermarket valvecover gasket that was even close to right. Not to say they won't work, but many either use the wrong type gasket material that squashes out when the cover is tightened or the most common thing is just the wrong shape gasket that requires an exacto knife to trim the excess after install. I don't particularly like either thing so just anty up for Kawasaki gaskets when needed.

Thanks guys!

Don't know cost or superiority of OEM gasket, but would concede them being the cat's meow. Have never done a direct side-by-side comparison of the the OEM and Z1E (Sudco, Vesrah) valve cover gasket.

Do know I replaced my Z-1 valve cover gasket with one from Z1E which is doing just fine including highway touring and above normal engine temps at bumper-to-bumper Bike Week. The gasket is substantial, even thickness, exact fit without skewing, and required no sealant of any kind.

Post edited by: Patton, at: 2007/06/08 16:11

Same here, got mine from Z1 and it fits perfect and lots cheaper than OEM.

I don't have much money to buy OEM so I get mine from z1, and I have to tell you.... God has been with them since installation! Can I get an Amen?

i like to glue the gasket to valve cover then i can usually reuse it atleast once by putting a little silicone on bottem of gasket;)

wireman wrote:

i like to glue the gasket to valve cover then i can usually reuse it atleast once by putting a little silicone on bottem of gasket;)

I just go one step further and put it on dry except for just a little Yamabond #4 on the bottom of the gasket only at the edges where the cam end plugs are. This seals up any little uneven area although I doubt it would ever leak, plus glues the gasket in place only on the head where it will stay. Remove the cover, and if you're careful the gasket will always just stay nice and set on the head and last the rest of the life of the engine from there on out. I never replace mine.