Can I run with a missing cam cover bolt?

[ChicagoBob]

While adjusting valves on my 23,000 mile '78 GS550, I broke one of the 16 cam cover bolts (inside center bolt, intake side). Not much left, and not enough room to drill, 3 days of PB Blaster doing nothing, so my question is, has anyone run with any of these bolts missing, and does it result in an oil leak?

By the way, when I think of how tight the PO had these things, I can't believe I didn't break more.

[Guest]

Drill it out and retap the threads.
Pull the head if necc.

[bonanzadave]

how tight the PO had these things

Coulda been seized by corrosion. I know the clutch cover has a bolt hole that goes straight to oil. If you dont want to tackle the removal at least fill the empty hole with some red rtv. Youll probably see a little seepage around the gasket where its not torqued down.

[Guest]

I need to read the entire post. I thought you stated cam caps. If you don't mind oil leaks then ride away.

[Guest]

Drill it out and retap the threads.
Pull the head if necc.

My 850 has two busted valve cover bolts.
Does just fine as long as ya use a good gasket.