I've never had a pivot bolt issue either, but I stay within the specified torque range when tightening them (32-58 ft/lbs). Last install took about 45 lbs to get the arm set properly, gently dropping under it's own weight.
Gary you are right. I think they would of continued building them for a while longer if some major piece of tooling had not worn out. The tooling was paid for by 76-77 I would think the margins were great and the specials made them some much needed cash while they transitioned away from the two strokes.Factory building fixtures wear out when thousands of assemblies are built in them. Often the end of a model run is due to fixturing needing replacement $$$.
I retarded the SG's timing about 2° last summer. It gave me a noticeable improvement in starting.... just touch the button and it lights right off. It's also a good hedge against detonation. So that right there was worth the price of admission. Other than that though, not much change really. Had to set the idle up a little, but no noticeable change in performance or vibes.
XSJohn was a serious advocate of slightly retarding timing and lowering compression for a smoother running engine better suited for a relaxed riding style
http://www.xs650.com/threads/tci-timing-tweak.55209/
http://www.xs650.com/threads/a-collection-of-xsjohns-mods.2426/
It help any?I backed off the timing on madness before the iron butt run, left it there.
Thanks for those pics Bob.
ps yer cheating Bob; the headers are MIA!
Thanks for those pics Bob.
I think they highlight why I'm planning on dropping my seat (and the rear frame rails dammit) to get closer to Steve's position, yet not be sitting sky high.
ps yer cheating Bob; the headers are MIA!
Sorry bob wanted to sneak this in here since you said I'ma sposed to be work'n on my bike!
I will gladly contribute the very nice buckhorns from the '82 I bought recentlyBob, you clearly need a new project. It is time to find a Special ( you don't have to reinvent it). The specials were Yamaha's answer to the cruisers that were popping up like mushrooms. Start your recliner experiment with the buckhorns