ORIGINAL: Flyboy Dave
Yes, it could be pulling air in from the front bearing....you might have to live with it,
or...put a sealed bearing in the front....if that is the case. [
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Loosen the headbolts using a cross pattern, and tighten them back down using a
cross pattern....just to eliminate a head, or liner leak.
FBD. [sm=regular_smile.gif]
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IF it is pulling air around the front bearing, the crankcase bore is out of spec and it is a warranty issue. Ball bearings do not determine the fit around the crankshaft and the permissable leakage level. The crankcase bore does this each and every time.
If none of the carb sealing tricks work and the backplate isn't leaking, it is time to return the engine for warranty repair with a note of explanation.
Ed Cregger