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can't keep this thing from dumping dino juice all over the top of the transmission (see pics). It's leaking like a sieve, enough that I actually am afraid to ride, lest I run too low.

Just noticed it today. Am running 20w50 in a stock 998cc '82 KZ1000. Normally it leaks pretty bad from the cam caps, however, it isn't today for some reason. It's pooling up really quickly on the bottom end. i can't tell where it's coming from. The oil is NOT coming from the crankcase breather, as I have a hose routing this over the chain. Also, the breather is NOT clogged, as you can feel it pushing out air at idle. The bike was dangerously low on oil when I checked it today (filled it up w/ a quart of 10w40), and was making clattering noises. It is also getting harder to start when hot. The oil was changed about 2 weeks ago. Can anyone help?

Clean it off real well, start the bike and look for the leak, is the only thing I can think of.

is there any way besides the breather being clogged that can cause the bottom end to push too much oil pressure?

Last time that happened to me it was coming from the cam chain tensioner gasket (or lack thereof) when the rpm's came up a bit. Check there...i'll bet you strike oil...

"Last time that happened to me it was coming from the cam chain tensioner gasket (or lack thereof) when the rpm's came up a bit. Check there...i'll bet you strike oil..."

I had exactly the same problem - new gasket and some permatex cleared it right up...

aboy does this look familiar...mine was coming from the cam tensioner also.
peace,
michel

thanks for the insight guys... I've never been into one of these motors deeper than the valve cover, what is involved in changing the cam tensioner gasket? can i do this w/o tearing the top end off?

It is very simple. You probably would have to take off the carbs and then the two bolts that hold the tensioner on. It is mounted to the outside of the engine block just below the center of the carbs. Sometimes you can get to the bolts without removing the carbs but not likely. You have to follow the proper procedures for reinstallation of the tensioner but I will let someone else tackle that. Also, you MUST buy a service manual for this machine. It will save lots of headaches and will teach you loads of stuff. Good luck.

Four reasons for oil where you are seeing it.

1. base gasket on cylinder head leaking
2. oil pipe where the oil pressure sensor is located leaking (two orings under the pipe)
3. can chain tensioner gasket leaking (remove two bolts, scrape old gasket/replace with new and readjust tension)
4. low profile breather not sealing.

I had one of the low profile breathers and it would NOT seal and leaked oil all over the place just in the location yours is leaking. I have also had the other three things happen over the years but I if that is an aftermarket breather cover, I would look there first.