justin_o_guy2 wrote on 03/12/21 at 20:33:58:To not replace the oring in the clutch cover is a mistake, imo
One of the things to consider about these bikes - is that as the years pass the rubber and plastic parts start to deteriorate. This is especially true of the rubber parts that are subject to the engine heat. It has been necessary for me to replace the carb spigot boot, carb/air cleaner tube, TEV valve diaphragm and Fuel Enrichment Valve on the 2002 bike I had.....the original parts were just too stiff to be used for too many more years. Fuel petcock diaphragms and fuel line might need to be replaced frequently.....depending on the fuel sold in your areas.
So......it may be desirable for you to begin replacing the rubber parts when you are working on your bike.
For those members who know they are going to keep their motorcycle for a long time - it really would be a good idea to stock up a few Savage parts that will deteriorate over time for replacement as needed. Carb spigots, air cleaner tube, TEV valve, Fuel Enrichment Valve, front pulley O-ring, Clutch shaft O-ring......and the many little sealing washers that go on the engine bolts - and perhaps a complete gasket set or two. Now that the Savage is out of production the OEM parts supply will slowly start to dwindle. There will never be an aftermarket parts supply network developed for the Savage like there is for vintage Honda, Triumph, Harley or Norton motorcycles - the Savage just won't support that kind of industry.