New to bike restoring

[ojsmitty]

Hello, I recently purchased an 85 GS 550e for $100. For that price it doesn't seem too bad, but certainly needs restored. My question is, where do I start on this thing? I'm not in a hurry and I want to learn more about bikes. Is there a typical order? Like, a checklist or something that says "restore this first, then this second, etc?" Thanks!

 

[Rich82GS750TZ]

Welcome. You came to the right place. Start here:

Top 10 Newbie Mistakes

 

[Rob S.]

For $100, that looks very nice. You can always recover the seat.

 

[1978GS750E]

PM sent. .

 

[ojsmitty]

Appreciate the quick responses!

 

[Steve]

In no particular order, since they all need to be done "first":
- valve adjustment
- carb rebuild
- electrical checks
- brake systems cleaned/rebuilt
- new tires

When that is done, the fun starts. :encouragement:

Valve adjustment is not that hard, you will just need a gasket and a couple of basic tools.

Carb rebuild is a bit more involved. If you don't want to tackle the project, there are a few of us that will do them for you.

Electrical checks will have to be done after you get the engine running.

Brakes are not that hard, just takes a little time and the right tools.

Tires are not hard if you have the right tools. Might be better to take the wheels to a shop to have the tires changed.

.

 

[oldGSfan]

A total overhaul looks like this for me. Mind you, this is on a bike that hasn't been on the road a while, and it's a fair bit of money if all the normal wear items need attention or you want them to be perfect like my current project, which is a total nut and bolt disassembly and refinish project. If it's just a refresh, just attend to the stuff that you can Look for a manual, maybe a PDF copy online. Sites have the microfiche are invaluable to know how it all goes together.

Rebuild brake calipers and master cylinders with new rubber items, and if cruddy looking, strip and paint.
Replace brake pads and hoses.
Replace fork seals and bushings if needed. Check spring.
Check wheel bearings - I haven't ever had to replace but have a look.
Replace shocks if needed, and usually that's the case.
Check steering head and swing arm bearings, replace/adjust as needed.
If worn or past use-by date, get new tires.
Replace the chain and sprockets if needed. I usually have to.
Batteries are usually toast on a cheap bike, so budget for that.
Go through electrics, check corrosion and address that with the proper solvent/lube for moving contacts.
Lube the cables, check and adjust clutch play.
Tune up - clean and sync the carbs, change oil, plugs, adjust and sync carbs, valves, check the rubber boots for any leaks.
Inspect exhaust, put in new crush O ring gaskets if any leaks.
Polish, clean and paint/blast/coat components while disassembled.
Check the gas lines and vacuum tubes, they may be old and leaky or brittle.

 

[Big T]

Yeah, expect that $100 bike to cost you another $1,000.
But, then it will be done correctly
Plus, you get to buy tools. Every one needs more tools

 

[ojsmitty]

So, I've got the carbs off and plan on doing the valve clearances while I've got things apart. Is there anything else I should do while I've got the carbs off?

 

[Big T]

Don't know if you've been led to the BassCliff tech site

http://members.dslextreme.com/users/bikecliff/

Go there and download:

Factory service manual
Mikuni BS carb rebuild
Camchain tensioner repair (in Engine odds and ends)

You might as well rebuild your cam chain tensioner now, while your carbs are out. Simple, cheap and easy. Just be sure to install and release it properly