Project’72

[mm1ut1]

Got started on my 72 . I haven’t used the work shop in nearly a year. Tools mysteriously migrated or disappeared. The lighting needs a lot to be desired. Time for a trip to Menards.
Plan is to get the engine running and go from there. Wheel and steering bearings seem ok. Gas tank was lined with epoxy sealer on is starting to flake off. Oil drain plug does not want to come off.
Plan of attack is to change the oil, set the valve and cam chain tension, and check the timing.
Pull the carbs and clean them, put everything together and see if it runs.
I really like the air filter housings and metal side covers.
I will be busy and probably won’t get back to it for a few days. Going to be a fun and educational project!

 

[Jim]

 

[jetmechmarty]

I will be busy and probably won’t get back to it for a few days. Going to be a fun and educational project!

Don’t screw it up without our help.

 

[Mailman]

Well this looks like a fun project! Watching with interest, good luck!

 

[cra-z1]

Looks like you have a pretty complete bike to start with.

 

[mm1ut1]

Got to the shop today. I bought two 5000 lumen lights, cleaned up the area, got my tools more or less sorted. I also got the drain plug removed. I had to use a five foot cheater bar . Sounded like a rifle shot when it broke free. Guess the previous owner didn’t like buying a new copper gasket after every oil change.
One problem with the new lights is that I can see how crusty it really is !
Going out of state soon for a week. Next step is check valves then clean the carbs.

 

[Wingedwheel]

That doesn’t look bad. Looks like just dirt, no oil grime.

 

[Tinker Taylor]

That doesn’t look bad. Looks like just dirt, no oil grime.

I agree. It looks more dusty than crusty.
'TT'

 

[cra-z1]

Yes looks very nice just dusty. Doesn't look like there is any rust

 

[mm1ut1]

Back from vacation and set the valves today. Didn’t need to do anything, everything was right on. One point was loose so I got it gapped. Looks like previous owner was in the middle of routine maintenance. All the access covers were loose. I also managed to lose an acorn nut for the valve cover.

I was told bike ran last year. Going to hook up a temp gas tank and try to start it . Got to get a 12v source, might use a garden tractor battery lying around the shop. If it doesn’t run carbs coming off for cleaning.

Those small LED lights sure come in handy !
Waiting on oil drain plug gasket. Got my paperwork from the state for the bond title.

 

[5twins]

It's best you at least drop a float bowl and have a look inside before attempting a start. If it's gummed up in there, a start attempt will suck crap up into the carb passages and plug things up big time.

 

[mm1ut1]

Well I just got back from the Yamaha dealer. No oil plug crush washer until middle of next week so I will pull the carbs off and take a look.

 

[jetmechmarty]

No oil plug crush washer until middle of next week

These crush washers from Aircraft Spruce work perfectly. I bought enough for a couple of years or more.

AN900-19 is the one you want.

 

[Kevin Werner]

It is kind of cool you live 3 blocks away from me. I would like to see you project when it works for you.

 

[46th Georgia]

It is kind of cool you live 3 blocks away from me. I would like to see you project when it works for you.
View attachment 209880

What exhaust are you running and is that an Omar's seat? What's the longest you've ridden it with that seat? Good lookin' bike BTW.

 

[Kevin Werner]

What exhaust are you running and is that an Omar's seat? What's the longest you've ridden it with that seat? Good lookin' bike BTW.

I think it is Omar's seat and the foam could use an upgrade, it is kind of harsh. If I was 50 pounds lighter it might be OK. I have only riden it 20 or 30 miles at a time since I took delivery early Oct. The XS650 rally in Arkansas will be a challange on my butt.

 

[46th Georgia]

I think it is Omar's seat and the foam could use an upgrade, it is kind of harsh. If I was 50 pounds lighter it might be OK. I have only riden it 20 or 30 miles at a time since I took delivery early Oct. The XS650 rally in Arkansas will be a challange on my butt.

Try a air cushion. Air Hawk is one brand. They work for me. What exhaust?

 

[Kevin Werner]

The cover is glued onto the base. I used rubber cement to re glue in fall. I will consider a dense "yoga matt" foam this year.

 

[46th Georgia]

The cover is glued onto the base. I used rubber cement to re glue in fall. I will consider a dense "yoga matt" foam this year.

Got any more pics?

 

[WideAWAKE]

Looks like a good bike to start with!