hey all i am currently working on my 2004 raptor 350 due to oil leaks. i replaced the o-rings on the exhaust and intake valve. the leaks stopped but now where the head meets crankcase oil spurts out. i think i have to replace the head gasket but was wondering if i needed to pull the engine. if not was is the cheapest and easiest way to replace that gasket? thank you

 

I think you mean the head gasket and the base gasket? The top end of the engine is two pieces, with the head on the top and the cylinder on the bottom. You can replace these gaskets without pulling the entire engine. it is a little tricky getting the head bolts in and out (they are long) buts it's easier than pulling the entire engine. While you have it all apart it would be wise to inspect the cylinder walls and replace the piston rings at a minimum.

Also if you've never done this before, setting the timing can be an experience, it doesn't get much easier than your engine, but you may want to study that before you tackle the job.

 

Thanks so much we figured out and we didn't have to pull the engine