1981 XS650 project - none running

[Russtic]

Well I had been looking for an xs 650 to replace my xj750 which I had bought and sorted.

Picked up a non-running 1981 Yamaha XS650 Heritage Special, imported to the UK in the early 90s. Started with the electrics—rewired it to remove a load of old inline glass fuses. Still no spark initially, but after replacing the coil, HT leads, and sorting the earths, it’s now got a strong, consistent spark. Carbs were in a terrible state, so I fully rebuilt them, including new throttle shaft seals. That’s now paid off as it’s running.

Previous owner claimed it was running last year… I’m sceptical.

Brakes were completely seized—calipers stripped and cleaned, full of gunk. Currently waiting on seals, a new piston, and tyres, etc. Overall it looks like it hasn’t been properly serviced in years. Really enjoying bringing it back to life. Plan is a light scrambler-style build, but only once it’s running and riding properly.

 

[5twins]

Black fenders, fork legs, and carbs indicate you have an '82 model.

 

[Downeaster]

A DPO (Dreaded Previous Owner) fibbed? Say it ain't so!

Sounds like A) you're off to a good start and B) you have a solid plan.

 

[JJames]

Nice work. Welcome.

 

[Adamc]

Well I had been looking for an xs 650 to replace my xj750 which I had bought and sorted.

Picked up a non-running 1981 Yamaha XS650 Heritage Special, imported to the UK in the early 90s. Started with the electrics—rewired it to remove a load of old inline glass fuses. Still no spark initially, but after replacing the coil, HT leads, and sorting the earths, it’s now got a strong, consistent spark. Carbs were in a terrible state, so I fully rebuilt them, including new throttle shaft seals. That’s now paid off as it’s running.

Previous owner claimed it was running last year… I’m sceptical.

Brakes were completely seized—calipers stripped and cleaned, full of gunk. Currently waiting on seals, a new piston, and tyres, etc. Overall it looks like it hasn’t been properly serviced in years. Really enjoying bringing it back to life. Plan is a light scrambler-style build, but only once it’s running and riding properly.View attachment 370623
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A warm welcome from Wales.
Looking forward to your adventure. I hope you post loads of piccies and text.
Any help required is within the forum members
They helped me get Taffy (myXS650) up and running over two years!
Cheers and good luck
Ads.

 

[Raymond]

Looks like you're off to a good start. Electrics sorted, these are good strong bikes - enjoy!

 

[Russtic]

New bearings and seals in front and back wheels. And new seal on engine sprocket. Annoying had new tyre on only to realise I got the direction wrong - after getting new chain on :-(

 

[Raymond]

It's amazing how much easier and quicker it gets with practice, Russtic ;-)

 

[JJames]

Doh! Tire on backwards. I've never done that but once thought I had for just a moment after reasembly. The horror.

 

[Russtic]

Doh! Tire on backwards. I've never done that but once thought I had for just a moment after reasembly. The horror.

yes I feel very daft...

 

[Raymond]

We all makes mistakes and I 'spose it's part of the learning process? I've heard 'it's not making a mistake that's daft, it's not learning from it as is daft.'

 

[JJames]

We all makes mistakes and I 'spose it's part of the learning process? I've heard 'it's not making a mistake that's daft, it's not learning from it as is daft.'

I'm with you Raymond. Just for giggles, anyone ever ride ride with tires mounted backwards? Guessing it wouldn't be great in the rain, but other than that?

 

[Jim]

I'm with you Raymond. Just for giggles, anyone ever ride ride with tires mounted backwards? Guessing it wouldn't be great in the rain, but other than that?

Fuzzy memory from back in the 70's....

Installed a rear backwards on an RD. By the time I realized it, I didn't have time to fix it 'cause I needed to ride it to work (no car at the time). The next day I decided there wasn't enough difference in feel to warrant changing it. Eventually wore the tire out that way.
If I remember correctly, it was a Dunlap K-70.

I suppose different brands behave differently, so...

 

[jetmechmarty]

Doh! Tire on backwards. I've never done that but once thought I had for just a moment after reasembly. The horror.

I’ve never done that either, but I’ve paid people to put it on backwards a few times.

 

[Russtic]

I took a break!! New tires bearing and seal fitted. New shocks fitted. Brakes fitted and bled. Annoying small leak from carbs I am guessing float height. And clutch is not doing clutch things …

 

[Wingedwheel]

And what would that clutch thing be that it’s not doing?

 

[Russtic]

And what would that clutch thing be that it’s not doing?

It is not releasing the clutch. But there is no tension on lever so I am guessing it may be simple … haven’t looked yet

 

[Wingedwheel]

First thing to check is the actuator. If it’s installed incorrectly it won’t work, or if the ball bearing is missing.

 

[Its been a long time]

Left side cover needs to come off. It's going to be pretty obvious why there is no resistance to the clutch lever.

 

[Raymond]

Yup, remember the awkward to reach screw right underneath the cover and well back, with them all out the cover should pull off easy, should be pretty messy under there, unless nobody's been oiling/greasing the chain, got to fiddle yer nipple out before you can put it down.