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Can you use silicone to seal a gasket on starter cover for motorcycle?

It is not recommended to use silicone to seal a gasket on a starter cover for a motorcycle. Silicone is not a suitable material for this application due to several reasons:

1. Compatibility: Silicone and rubber gaskets do not always have good adhesion and can cause leaks.

2. Temperature Resistance: Silicone has a lower temperature resistance compared to the high temperatures that a motorcycle engine may reach, which can lead to gasket failure.

3. Gasket Life: Silicone tends to dry out and lose its flexibility over time, which can cause the gasket to become brittle and crack, leading to leaks.

4. Proper Seal: Gaskets are designed to provide a tight seal to prevent leaks, while silicone may not be able to effectively fill all the gaps and irregularities, resulting in potential leakage.

The proper way to seal a starter cover gasket on a motorcycle is to use a new OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) gasket or a high-quality aftermarket gasket specifically designed for that motorcycle model. These gaskets are made of suitable materials that can withstand the operating conditions and provide a proper seal.