cam gasket

just got my cam gasket and little rubber half moon pieces but now i can't find my haynes manual. i was wondering if the top portion of the engine comes completely off when i go to replace that gasket or if i will have to remove a larger section of the engine to get at it.

I think you mean the cam cover gasket if so than yes just the cam cover has to come off.
Tom

thank you

An old racer's trick is to install them inside out(put the larger flange or lip on the inside of the engine) this reduces the chance of oil leaks more.

Make sure all cam plug areas are clean of oil.

What bike are you working on? On the 1000's the cam cover is sometimes a pain to get off. You will have to work it around the cam chain tower but it will come off through the right side.