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New owner

Discussion in 'Hangout Lounge' started by dmschuler, Mar 27, 2009.

  1. dmschuler

    dmschuler Member

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    Good evening everyone!

    Just picked up a 1982 Yamaha 550 Maxim. Found it on craigslist for $200! The guy said it ad been sitting for a year or two and wasn't sure if it ran. I figured why not - I like to tinker a bit.

    Got it home, put a new battery in, along with new plugs - a little starting fluid and it started right up!

    It needs some work. Serious cosmetic attention.

    Before I get too deep in it I want to tune it up, fix the gas leak (found that after putting gas in the tank), and change the oil.

    Next, probably go through the electrical system making sure everything is intact and finding out why the directionals aren't working.

    Once the mechanical things are done I'll focus on the appearance.
    - recover the seat
    - paint!
    - do something with the rusty chrome - refinish or paint?

    I'm also looking for a factory service manual - anyone have one?

    Looking forward to the adventure, and to participating in the forum!

    Doug
     
    dmschuler, Mar 27, 2009
    #1
  2. Desinger_Mike

    Desinger_Mike Member

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    Welcome to the site.
    One of the first things you want to do is install an inline fuel filter between the tank and carbs. IF the carbs aren't plugged up, they will be soon without some protection.

    The wealth of knowledge here is totally amazing and will help you get your new ride SAFELY on the road.

    good luck
     
    Desinger_Mike, Mar 27, 2009
    #2
  3. dmschuler

    dmschuler Member

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    Thanks Desinger_Mike!

    Your bike looks great - any special tips on painting the motor?
     
    dmschuler, Mar 27, 2009
    #3
  4. Desinger_Mike

    Desinger_Mike Member

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    Take your time :)
    Prep work is the key.

    And most importantly, after you get the carbs back on and just getting ready to fire it up for the first time, do NOT spill gas all over it (like I did)

    I had it mostly torn apart at the time (see my slideshow in my signature).
    I'd suggest putting a clear coat over the paint.
    Pretty much chemically stripped it to bare metal and then took a paint stripping disk after it to remove the oxidation spots.
    The X is water-cooled so there are fewer crevices, and it runs a lot cooler.
     
    Desinger_Mike, Mar 27, 2009
    #4
  5. bill

    bill Active Member

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    Welcome - PM Chacal on this site for fair prices on just about any part you may need. He also has manuals.

    Big Fitz52 is our resident 550 guru. Spend a bit of time looking around - a ton of info on this site.
     
    bill, Mar 27, 2009
    #5

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