Refitting GS1000 engine?

[Guest]

New here and currently restoring a GS1000S. The engine is complete and ready to refit into the bare frame. Am I better lifting the engine into the frame or lifting the bare frame over the engine? Google search shows both methods but I'd be grateful for advice either way from those who've done it. Cheers.

 

[rphillips]

I don't think there's a wrong way, whatever is easiest for you. For me, I've just got some help and set the eng in the frame. Oh yeah, welcome to the GSR.

 

[Rob S.]

I think frame over engine is useful if you're working alone.

 

[chuck hahn]

Put cardboard to protect frame and this method. Engine in in minutes without needed hejp


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1dRAJX9Pvs

 

[oldGSfan]

I have done many engines and by far it is easiest is with a chain hoist, they are about $50. Another $7 for a furniture dolly, lie the engine on its side, and shim with 2x4s or whatever gets it reasonably level. Put down some thick towels or a moving blanket. Attach some tie down straps, 4 is plenty. Then you can do it yourself and not mash your knuckles or damage the paint on the frame. It's not that expensive and it makes things easy for the bolts to slide in, you have micro adjustments and no need for muscle strain or even a 2nd person. Harbor Freight has all you need.

Here's a CB750 going in/on. After doing this with >10 bikes, I can't imagine doing this any other way such as sliding it in from the side, just too much knuckle meat to lose.

Oh, and with that hoist, when you are working on the front end, hoist away. Back end? same. Whole bike? No worries. I had one of those little MC jacks someone gave me, and OMG what a piece of garbage. So unsteady and never really fit any bike I had. Just use a hoist.

You can do it with the suspension/wheels still on.

 

[Guest]

Many thanks for the replies. I've got an engine hoist and lots of straps so that looks very straight forward. Does the engine come in from the right side of the frame or will either side do?

 

[oldGSfan]

Many thanks for the replies. I've got an engine hoist and lots of straps so that looks very straight forward. Does the engine come in from the right side of the frame or will either side do?

It depends on the bike. Manuals sometimes tell you which side to go in from. My '82 GS1100 was clutch side up as I dropped the frame down, as I recall, but you may best find info in the service manual which is available online on this site, or linked. Let me know if you can't find the link to them, I think it's BWringer or something. I remember it required some adjustment of the ratchet straps to get the angle right as well, it was fairly a tight squeeze. But nothing complex. I would have never been able to do it any other way. Good luck.

 

[chuck hahn]

yours is right side