Hi everyone.

Some of you may have seen my post in General regarding my coolant leak. I am thinking that the coolant system is fine, as it was just pressure tested recently by my dealer.

It has been suggested to me that it might be a problem with my head gasket, causing the coolant to be burnt up in the cylinder.

Things I have noticed (symptoms?):

- Coolant disappearing, no obvious signs of leak at any of the clamps.
- Lots of very white smoke when I first start the sled up (more than normal).
- More recently (last ride), a small loss of power (~10 mph or so on the top end).

Just wondering if this could possibly be the problem? Is it something I should consider replacing? The sled has about 3600 miles on it. Unsure whether it has ever been rebuilt.... I think the previous owner might have done the mag side piston.

I will be taking the sled into a heated shop to do some suspension work (broke shock/skid on disastrous ride home through a near blizzard at night on friday).

Any suggestions are much appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

At 3600 miles I would put a new set of Kimpex pistons, rings and throw a top end gasket kit in her. I would also make sure the head is flat and de-glaze the cylinders. I would also change the coolant with some fresh stuff. Less than 150 bucks total.

It is easy to check the o-rings on the cylinder head. Remove the heads and if the inner o-ring is compromised there will probably be a wash mark on the piston dome where the leak is. I don't think it would be necessary to replace pistons and rings, but you should be able to check the compression and visually inspect the rings and pistons through the exhaust ports if you take the y-pipe off, at least one side of the pistons. You will be able to inspect the cylinders when you have the heads off. If you choose to replace pistons and rings use OEM. If you have a bad cylinder head o-ring you only need to replace them. The o-rings on the head bolts should be fine for reuse, I have never replaced mine after a couple of top end rebuilds and have not had a problem related to those items.

A common cooling system leak is at the water pump. You can tell by coolant at the weep hole at the bottom of the pump, under the motor. If there is fluid in the belly pan at the front of the motor then that could be your leak. There are a couple of seals on the water pump shaft that would need replacing.