Head gasket leaking cooling fluid

[Beer van Huet]

I just returned from a 1000 mile trip and when cleaning my bike, I discovered the head gasket leaking cooling fluid near No 2 cilinder. I checked all the radiator connections and blew the wet spot dry several times. The gasket is leaking cooling liquid. I have a 2000 model Standard with 40.000 miles. Is there anything else  I can check and maybe fix myself before I bring it to my dealer ( gasket change cost a day's labour and parts; looking at a $ 800,- job at least)

[Black Dog]

Not doubting you, but be sure the leak is not from another area...  Get a flashlight, and check out the top of the engine (between carbs) around the thermostat...  Coolant can and does flow quite a distance, especially when on the side stand.

I, and many others, have had a coolant leak 'up top', and had it look like it was dripping off the block.

Again, not doubting your initial check, just making sure ya look everywhere 

Black Dog

[Michvalk]

The first place a Valk will leak is the clamp on the top hose at the thermostat. Hard to get to to tighten up, but is usually where it leaks. Coolant WILL show up on the left side of the motor as it leanes that way on the stand. Check that first before you spring for unnecessay work. Hope that is the problem.

[eric in md]

what they said .. mine leaks when its real cold out ... not the head i bet its water hose or gasket .. if you ride it warm it up it all goes away .. good luck

[Pete]

If you determine that it is the head, I would try some stop leak before tearing it down.
It is a low percent chance of success but worth the try.

Not that the Valkyrie had a small cooling system so be sure and read the directions and do not add more than recommended, also make the stop leak is approved for aluminum.

[Beer van Huet]

After several starts in a few days the leak got bigger and you were all correct; it did originate from the thermostat hose after all. Just could not determine it when the leak was small. Tightened the hose and the leak was gone.
Thanks folks

[eric in md]

great news  thanks for letting us all know  ride safe ..