Mounting Engine back on frame,...With or without top end on?

[suey1958]

(RD350) It seems like it would be a lot easier to mount the engine without the top end on. I remember when taking mine off  it seemed awfully tight.   Just wondering which is the best way. 

[Jspooner]

I do it with the cylinders on but the heads off. Put the heads on once it's in the frame.

[rodneya]

When did they start making frames with the front mount that was removable?

[suey1958]

Thanks JSpooner, In that case,(On the base gasket) Do you use gasket sealer on  both sides? 

[pdxjim]

I just use grease on the base gaskets so they'll come apart when you need them to later.

Base gasket is a low pressure joint, so no sealer is needed.

[SUPERTUNE]

When did they start making frames with the front mount that was removable?

In '76 with the 1st RD400.
All rd 350's and earlier were fixed frame models.
Chuck

[Jspooner]

Thanks JSpooner, In that case,(On the base gasket) Do you use gasket sealer on  both sides?

No gasket sealer on base gaskets. A thin layer of grease is good tho. Helps with disassembly.

[suey1958]

Very Good, That makes perfect sense. Thanks Again   

[SUPERTUNE]

I just use grease on the base gaskets so they'll come apart when you need them to later.

Base gasket is a low pressure joint, so no sealer is needed.

My preferred way is to use 3M's Marine silicone spray on base gaskets.




I do glue the primary gasket to the side cover and then grease the case side as this will save from having to replace it when needing to get into the clutch.
I used the same clutch cover gasket on my F-500 racebike for like 5-6 clutch changes over the whole race season of about 20-25 races.
(in order to win...the clutch is like tires, a disposable item)