Big Blocks - Leakers?

Today i was told by 2 different people that the big block engine have a tendency to leak - every so slightly - oil from the heads.

I am look to paint my engine, and know if I can expect this seepage, then painting is out.

Any input from those who run or ran big blocks as to leaking, correcting, warping..?

I have no personal experience but I have read in various old bike mags that the J engine (998cc) is particularly suceptible to such problems due to spotty quality control at the factory.
I'm sure other more knowledgeable folks will have more/better info than I have and they'll give you the full details.

my motors dont leak oil

I have heard the same many times over from people that should know. Also I have a 1428 that seeps. I took everything apart had the block and head checked for surface trueness and put everything back together with the best stuff. Still seeps. Doesn't seem to hurt anything though. I wouldn't be to worried about it.

Appreciate the input. Only thing I think it will do... is ruin the pretty looks of a finished bike. I guess racers don't care?

Plummen - I have been here long enough to know your work is exceptional... I rely on others for engines. I just 'play' with the mods on ocassion. When your ready to visit SoCal.. I have a few engines waiting for a builder;)

i had a 900 converted to 1260 utilizing a big block, on the street........ it seeped.
i also had a 1000 converted to a 1327 utilizing a big block, on the street and .....it seeped.
As already posted I had both engines torn down and a complete service which included new valve springs, seals, and address any issues during run time. So I had my cases checked, block checked, used both style vents, all you can imagine to correct the enoying leaks. Nothing I did even slowed them down. But get this.....the 1260 I eventually turned into a turbo motor. Its a full track bike now and has been for the past 2 yrs. I haven't seen a drop of oil seep/leak out of it anywhere...LOL
I honestly think it has something to do with how thin the oil gets, as well as how hot the motor gets.
One the track its running for less than 1 minute at a time usually. Not really enough time to get has hot as street use.

ill be in carmel/monterrey area on the 26th this month till around 6th of july,road trip might be possible.any motor can leak oil if you dont pay attention to details my 1428 turbo never leaked oil from head or cylinder area neither did my 1327.ive seen plenty of stock blocked bikes built by some of the local hack artists that leak like a sieve mostly due to sloppy workmanship in my opinion

If you get down south while out here... give me a shout! Would be nice to meet you... I know there are several others here in the SoCal area, too.

And if you want to turn a wrench... I'm up for it;)

im trying to figure out how to get some tools out there with me cuz im sure ill be plumbing or wiring something while im there,not sure if the airlines will let me check a box of tools though! :S

i got tools - and what i don't have - Harbor Freight with their one-time use tools is just around the corner - literally.

just talked to united the guy says i can check my tools when i get to airport,one more hurdle out of my way!

I just went to UT from SoCal for work... took my woman, who naturally packed a bag to large for carry-on. Cost her $15.00 each way to check it. Hope you have light weight tools, since they charge even more for heavy bags:unsure: