Yesterday:
Titled, registered, insured. Washed, degreased. Started the process of PMing and recon to see what state my new steed is in.
Oil & filter change. The old oil was dirty of course, but no indication of fuel or water. As you can see, there was some plastic and aluminum bits. More plastic than aluminum. I replaced the RH filter with a new one and returned the existing (thanks PO!) good-condition reinforced sump filter after a quick clean. When do these cam guide droppings become an issue worthy of replacement?
Checked cam chain tension, good. Checked valve clearances, intakes were each just slightly more open than spec. Adjusted rear brake, 3" pedal travel was a bit much.
Recon results:
Front tire is showing its long life in a dry climate. A Michelin Pilot Activ 100/90 is waiting for me at the tire shop.
Brake line is original and the exterior jacket is cracked along the whole length. The master cylinder's reservoir is shot. Stainless line, a new M/C, and Vesrah pads are scheduled to arrive today from Mr. Morse.
I'll need a new chain and sprockets soon, some of the rear teeth are
just starting to horn. I'll replace the rear tire, shoes, chain and sprockets all in one go pretty soon.
Carbs. They're no doubt in need of a rebuild. I've attempted to sync via the dead cylinder method, but I know I have other issues. When I raise the RPM to ~1800 and pull the RH plug, the RPMs drop maybe 200 or so. Pulling the LH plug immediately kills the engine. Plugs definitely need replacing, so I'll do that (and set things to book spec) before attempting further carb adjust.
Clutch: Shifts very nicely, but can be tough to find neutral. This might be my own getting used to a motorcycle shift. My previous ride, an almost classic scooter, shifted by twisting the left grip with visual index markings.
What else did I do? Put her on the road for the first time since I got her a week ago. I've never enjoyed my commute more than I did last night. Given the known carb imbalance I'm glad my commute's only 4 miles, but I know for sure that once I dial her in I'll be taking the looong way home most days.
Tomorrow morning I'm going to meet up with a local vintage motorcycle club. Hoping they can offer advice specific to my machine after an in-person look and listen.
Daniel