Bring XJ700X Back from the dead???

I was recently was handed (for free) a 1986 XJ700X with 22k miles. It looks like new and according to the owner has not been run since last fall. I suspect longer, but that is what he said. I put a new battery in and all the electronics work. The front Brake Cylinder plunger is stuck so no front brakes right now. All fluids are up. Oil is mid way in the view lens, coolant right on the cold mark and there is probably a 1/4 gal of fuel. I want to try and start it, but I am looking for some guidance prior to cranking.

Should I start it as is just to get it going? Should I drain the oil cold and add new? Should I add additives? Should I add some fresh fuel with sea foam to the tank and go for it? Suggestions please??????

 

I'm not the expert. But, I can tell you that earlier on someone had a bike that had not run for 14 years, and another (smarter fellow than myself) suggested that he put some penetrating oil down the cylinders overnight.

You might want to try to drain the carb.s to see what kind of stuff is in there, if they drain at all. But you need to be careful with the carb drain screws as they can be VERY touchy, and easy to strip. If it's old gas, you might want to drain that, and start fresh.

If it was me, I would change the oil and filter, drain the carbs (hopefully clean comes out) and remove all the old gas (hopefully clean comes out), put some oil to lube the pistons, have it turn around a couple times without plugs in, check the condition of the plugs.

That should tide you over until someone smarter than me comes along

 

WOW, wish I had friends like that! Pretty sure I'm less smart that kordasn but sounds like he's giving you good advice at a minimum to see where you stand. I've got the same bike and somewhat similar situation so will be interested to hear others chime in...

 

Well,

Actually to be more specific B1, you got a 1986 Maxim-X XJ700XS. You'll need to be more specific to get more specific advice. Welcome to the forum. Hey, customize your signature to display your bike type and it'll help you avoid identifying the type of bike you have in every post.

See you Monday.

 

You guys are on the right track; drain everything including the carb bowls (if you can get the screws out) change the oil and filter right away (and plan to change the oil again REAL soon.) Pull the plugs, pour a couple of tablespoons of motor oil in each cylinder, and spin the motor over a few times. Install FRESH plugs. Pull the air filter and blow it out from the inside and reinstall. Hit the button and see if you have fire! Once its running: Assume NO MAINTENANCE was ever (properly) performed, unless you have written evidence to the contrary. Get ahold of a service manual, and go through EVERY maintenance item top to bottom, front to back. Leave nothing out. Plan to replace any gasket you disrupt, including the valve cover gasket and all the little rubber donuts for the screws. BE AWARE: The valve cover bolts have "stop collars" they WILL NOT tighten up any more don't try you'll strip 'em. Change all the fluids, fork oil, etc. INSTALL AN IN-LINE FUEL FILTER almost immediately. And welcome to the world of the XJ series Yamaha.

 

D'oh, forgot the air filter and in-line.

I also sent you a PM, bigfitz52, I got a question for ya.

-Matt

 

Hey B1 I told Artie(RT) I work for diet pepsi. I live < 5 miles from you. Be glad to help you get the old gal running.

 

Don't forget to hit up the Maxim-X site for more details.