Burning oil.

[W109driver]

Hi. Loving my 76' GL. But......
I'm burning oil.
But only on one side (right side)
It is a low mileage engine (39k.miles)
Compression is ok.

I know it's righthand side because I have twin exhausts.
Also looking at the mileage and being the right, I believe the bike has stood for many years on its side stand.

It smoked and I thought maybe with some running it would come around.
Well it's been a 1000 miles and is still smoking on startup.

So, I'm thinking valve seals? Dried up over the years?
People's thoughts and advice welcome.

[landisr]

Is it most noticeable on startup? Does it clear up after running a couple minutes? That would indicate that you have a 'normal' Gold Wing. Most GWs and also BMW airheads (air cooled flat/boxer twins) do this. If it concerns you, just park it on the center stand.

[MattMcCoy]

What’s the compression on the cylinders?

I don’t think you would have smoke on the right side of the engine due to the bike sitting on the side stand. These bikes are known to smoke a little on startup from the side stand when a little oil gets past the rings, but usually through the left exhaust and only for a few minutes.

[W109driver]

Thanks for replies.
Okay only noticeable on start up smokes from right (throttle side) exhaust for about 2 minutes. I only have a side stand.

Once warm it looks fine but I know I'm burning oil because after every 100miles I'm having to top up oil. (No drips or mixing) Maybe 150/200ml. per 100 miles.

Compression was around 140psi all around.

[landisr]

The fact that you are having to add oil on a frequent basis seems to indicate that you might have an issue with a valve seal or possibly a head gasket. But before you tear into it, you might check to see if a piston ring is stuck in it's groove by adding some Marvel Mystery Oil to a tank of gas and go for a nice long ride. It won't hurt anything and may help. It's an old remedy that has been known to work on occasion.

Let us know what you ultimately find out. Good luck.