Oil leak?

[Blairbee]

Hi all I have a 2003 GS500 that I picked up in feb. anyways I believe I found a lemon every time I turn around problems lastest one is a oil leak from what appears to be on the left side of the case any suggestions on what's under that cover and how to fix the issue .......first bike is this a common thing with these? If so what's the solution or even a suggestion on where to find a service manual looked online with no success

Thanks for any help that can be provided

[weedahoe]

Every engine will leak sooner or later. Thats common for any bike/car/truck/ect

Try tightening the cover first. If thats not it, then take it off and replace the gasket

[lynx124]

I second what weedahoe said. I have an 07 so Im not sure if its the same for the older years, but the oil gasket may just need to be changed or was not properly installed to begin with (by the previous owner/mechanic). I do not recommend buying an aftermarket gasket as they usually dont fit right. The OEM Suzuki part is cheap anyway.

[Blairbee]

Ok thanks for the heads up on the factory gaskets

[Kerry]

Hmmm ... which cover on the left side?

Is it possible that you're experiencing the dreaded "chain over-lubrication" issue, where flung-off chain lube gathers behind the front sprocket cover and eventually leaks down the gear shift lever and all over your left boot?

[noworries]

The old bikie trick with this is to push an o-ring, or even a couple of rubber bands (but they will perish quick), up, over, and along the gear shift lever. This provides an early drip point for the oil and keeps yer boots immaculate. I could tell ya a hero story or two about the oil drips on my old Triumphs, but I won't bore ya all.