About to start my XJ project

Well, I'm finally getting around to taking a look at the XJ that came with the house we bought, so I figured I'd touch base with the experts. Haven't owned a bike in over 10 years, but my last one was a 1984 Seca and I've heard that the XJs aren't too different. I learned a lot about maintenance and minor repairs on the old bike, and hoping some of that comes back to me. I've also got a Haynes manual that I've started perusing, but my real question is whether or not there are any good sources of videos online that demonstrate some common maintenance/repair projects like carb cleaning, spark plug replacement, etc.?

Since I'm really JUST getting started, I don't even know what model mine is (tried to upload a pic, but need to amend size first), but I'm thinking it's probably a 750 (maybe a Maxim, but I can't tell yet). Will have to look at the steering unit to find out, I guess? Needs a new battery, and I was told it might need some "carb work", so I guess I'm also looking for some advice on what to do first to get her to fire up (the starter engages and turns, but the engine doesn't fire, though I haven't tried it with a new battery yet) and then diagnose what needs work. Any thoughts on where/how to get started? Appreciate any help you can offer the newbie.

 

All the info you will need is right here. Just do a search and you will find what you need. If you don't just ask and someone will have that information for you in no time. Here is a link to decipher your VIN# to figure out what model you have. http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=14577.html . If you open a photbucket or imageshack account you can upload pics to there and then link to them on here. A pic on here will also get your bike identified.

I would start your project by changing the oil, rebuilding the carbs, changing the plugs and checking the valves. Get it running first. Once it is running,pull the rear wheel and check the brakes visually for delamination. Don't ride the bike until you do that.

 

Very helpful - I was able to confirm that I have a 1982 XJ650 Maxim. Will have to check the engine once I have more time to read through the rest of that post.

"Rebuilding the carbs" sounds a bit daunting, but I'm sure I'll find some good info and tips on the site to help me through it. Thanks again for the help!

 

welcome to the forum. Lots of good information here . Oh by the way All seca and maxims are xjs

 

First off, WELCOME from TN!!! Pretty much everything I've done so far in the way of cleaning and refurbishing has come from the info and HELP of the members here...

skillet

 

Start by reading through the first few articles in here: http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=27544.html

Lots of good stuff from the forum, all packed together in one spot.

Also lots of good articles in "FAQ Suggestions," and use the search feature.

But start here: http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=15874.html

 

A lot of good info on this site - spending a lot of time reading through threads, then backtracking to the original to follow another chain. I could spend a lot of time here.

Out of curiosity - anyone here located on south shore of MA? Would be interested in getting together with a fellow XJ-er at some point, if only to talk shop and trade stories/advice.