Stupid question alert !!!

[exdirtbiker]

..." Make sure you clean all of the old gaskets off real good before putting the new ones on."...

I have found that Permatex Gasket remover ( in a spray can ! ) is actually worth every penny.
just don't let it overspray the paint !

the clutch.... It's pretty obvious I'm hoping for a miracle.
I'll know soon enough.
any thoughts on clymer/haynes vs. factory manual?
the factory manual doesn't really have step by step instructions.
They asssume alot.
Let me say I'm not "clueless"...( I've done car head gaskets, rebuilt (2) XL600R, owned many corvettes/mustangs)
The problem is, it's been so long since I took this bike apart, I really feel "lost" when I look at it.
ziploc bags with bolts laying all over..... I really "shot myself in the foot" with this one.
SO..... is the clymer book any better?

[exdirtbiker]

could this be my problem? ( make sure your speakers are turned up )

( click on the movie to watch it )

[Spyderman]

could this be my problem? ( make sure your speakers are turned up )

( click on the movie to watch it )

yup there's your problem and it's a common one you can get rebuild kits for them and then get it put in or send it to APE i believe they do the rebuilds
i still don't know what or where that nasty crap that was in your oil came from but i would investigate everything before putting it back together or it could be all for nothing if your don't find that problem

[exdirtbiker]

OK, let me first say "thanks" to all of you that have helped me so far....

and then I'll hit the "reset button".

the crap in the oil is aluminum, not copper.
the oil gave it a red-ish tint, but after letting it sit for another week, I realized it's not copper.
so what in the motor could make that much aluminum flakes?...
every time I make a "good" diagnosis, something else goes wrong!

here's what i know... ( not much ! )
the clutch basket is shot. { the noise}
the starter clutch bolts were loose, but not eating any copper at all. one had rub marks, but from rubbing against steel, not copper.
the rods all feel the same... great. new carb cleaning, tires, battery. replaced rear disc + caliper.
the pistons look new. the cyls look new. the cams are new.
the tank has a rattle can paint job. all the chrome is shot. the side covers are bolted down, crudely. the seat has rips.
should I continue, or just throw in the towel?
and fleabay the parts?
I'm in for about $800 so far.... pulling the motor apart even further is realy not what I want to be doing this winter. and I have little money for it.
I'm loosing interest fast. And learning as I go, which always seems to cost more.
I can buy a " minty fresh" 79 GS 1000 for $1200. should I really continue with this?
I think I already answered most of my questions, but I would like to know how you guys feel about it.
{ and feel free to make an offer. }