[Speedfreak75]

I need to replace a leaking valve cover gasket for my ZZR1200 motor, but the motor is not in the original bike, so I don't know what year the motor is so I can purchase the right part. Can I tel from the numbers on the motor or somethingelse that may be able to assist me in determining the year of the motor?

THANKS for any help you may be able to provide!

 

[Hammerhead]

All ZZR 1200 valve cover gaskets are the same. Be sure you also replace the figure "8" spark plug well gaskets, too. They are more prone to leakage than the cover itself. Plus when they leak, there's no outward indication until the plugs begin to misfire.

 

[Speedfreak75]

Awesome!!! Thank you for the help!!!

 

[Rundog]

Many Kaw engines leak oil from the VC. Before installing the new gasket, start about an 2 inches from the corner. Apply a THIN layer of silicone seal on the head around the corner, and in each camshaft cutout as well as between each cutout. Do not get any on the inside of the motor. When all four corners are done, you shouldn't have any further problems.

 

[Hammerhead]

Many Kaw engines leak oil from the VC. Before installing the new gasket, start about an 2 inches from the corner. Apply a THIN layer of silicone seal on the head around the corner, and in each camshaft cutout as well as between each cutout. Do not get any on the inside of the motor. When all four corners are done, you shouldn't have any further problems.

I've done that to soldier an old gasket on, but it makes for a mess to clean up the next time you pull the cover. If nothing else is awry, new gaskets should cure the leak. The cover has a continuous groove around the perimeter that gives it two smaller clamping surfaces yielding more force on the gasket. The gaskets take a set after a while and do not rebound when the cover bolts are loosened. this is what leads to the leakage, which a new, pliable gasket will fix.

 

[Rundog]

This is an old subject. It was old when I did it to my '85 Ninja. Back in the 80s'. Nothing has changed. Here are some threads relating the experiences of other riders. Draw your own conclusions.

http://kawasakiworld.com/zx-12r/45067-valve-cover-gasket.html
http://kawasakiworld.com/zx-12r/45095-valve-cover-gaskets.html
http://kawasakiworld.com/zx-12r/11195-oil-leaking-around-cylander-head-cover.html
http://kawasakiworld.com/zx-12r/42268-valve-cover-gasket-two-quick-qs-i-searched.html

The Kawasaki service manual for the ZX12 recommends sealant. I have no doubt the same is recommended for other models as well.