coolant leaking out of #2 exhaust.

[velvetrider]

OK new starter. Process of gauging valve lash, discovered coolant leaking slightly out of #2 exhaust as I had #1 TDC. The values are close to correct but the coolant, about 1 ounce is a concern.
"Black Velvet" ran great before I had to change the starter. On the surface it sounds like I have a blown head gasket, but the ole girl ran really well. Insight anyone, ???
Thanks, Geoff.

[MattMcCoy]

Did you inspect the crossover tube and radiator hose to rule out a leak that might be finding its way south?

[bofler]

what do you mean "out of the exhaust"? out of the end of the pipes? or drips up front near the header? there's also a weep hole on that side on the bottom of the case that will drip when there is a water pump issue.

[velvetrider]

Thanks guys,,, I had the exhaust removed, to deal with replacing the starter. That replacement was no picnic,, I broke the forward bolt trying to remove it. I think I got a strong connection using J B Weld Epoxy. OK, before reconnecting exhaust, gear shift lever, engine guard; I decided to adjust the valves. Removed the rocker arm covers left and right. After setting #1 to TDC I did the adjustment.
Then upon 180* degree of flywheel, #2 was at TDC. I looked down at the cover which was catching some oil drip I noticed that coolant was dripping out to the #2 exhaust. Maybe an ounce. I will reconnect everything tomorrow. So,, I am thinking maybe a small break in head gasket that allowed some seepage. Blackvelet an 83 GL1100 w/ 89K was running flawlessly when I removed the starter, due to severe lug when I pushed the starter,, Turns out the brushes were almost totally worn away,,, New starter spins engine fine.
I can say for sure that the coolant was coming from inside the #2 exhaust. no moisture was anywhere else.
Opinions,,,????

[bofler]

still a bit confused, but think i understand. have you pulled the plugs and looked down in the cylinder to see if you can see some coolant? sounds like a minor head gasket failure, that over time will get worse. after you get the bike back together and run it a bit you'll have to see if you start puffing out coolant smoke/steam.

[velvetrider]

No I haven't tried that, the plugs are out now so it will be easier to look. Thanks. I have had a bit of white smoke out of that side for about 2 years, It clears as soon as the muffler is hot.

[bofler]

smoke that clears soon after starting is usually oil smoke, especially on that side if it rests on the side-stand. if it starts pumping out plumes of sweet vapor, then you can be sure you need to change the head gaskets. i'd just keep an eye on your coolant and your oil for signs of mixing, and don't go off on any huge trips until you're sure you don't have leak somewhere.