1983 Maxim 750 new project

I've been thinking about learning to ride for a while, so just after the first of the year I picked up a non-running 1983 Maxim 750 off of Craigslist to work on.





Over all, the bike seems to be in pretty good shape, never layed down or wrecked, but there seems to be some oil on the plugs and the normal oil leaks from the rear end, valve covers, and one of the front forks. The previous owner also said that there was some oil in the intake.

Being that this is my first bike, I was hoping that the XJers could offer me some advise on what I should do to get this bike back on the road safely and economically.

I've read about the carb rebuilds, the YICS tool, and the brake lining problem. Is there anything else I need to be aware of on this bike? Where can I get the YICS tool, books, parts, and other stuff I need to rebuild this bike the right way? What do I need?

Thanks!

Tim

 

hey tim, i do believe there was a forum post on here awhile ago about how to build your own yics tool. i bought a repair manual for my bike off ebay which has helped out immensely so i definately suggest getting one of those. i've found the biggest thing you need with these old bikes is a ton of patience, and some penetrating lube.

 

The bike looks to be very complete and in quite decent shape for its age. Get a compression test as soon as you can, so you know exactly what's going on, and away you go. Welcome aboard!

We have a resident parts source, XJ4Ever. Click on the logo-link in the site banner at the top of the page and/or PM member chacal. He carries virtually every part you'll need, the correct parts, at very reasonable prices. And his YICS tool is correct and works very well, BTW.

eBay will be your new best friend as well, for the big things that simply aren't available any more, but be very careful buying "parts" parts as many eBay sellers simply have no clue.

Track down a factory service manual, either from chacal or off eBay (the Haynes is "ok" but the factory book is much better, IMHO.)

Read EVERYTHING in here: http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=27544.html especially the first half-dozen or so, under "Getting Your Mind Right."

And that will get you pointed in the right direction. There is a process involved with properly recommissioning an old bike; do it right and you'll be rewarded with a reliable, enjoyable modern classic. But it will take time and effort and a few $$$.

I think it's worth it. (Check my gallery.)

Oh, and one last thing. You will need some Kroil. Works when nothing else does, honest. http://www.kanolabs.com/google/

 

Get yourself the XJCD (http://www.xjcd.org/). It has all the manuals you will need + many other articles on how to fix these bikes. Well worth the $10 price tag.

 

Nice looking bike! From what I understand if you are getting oil on the plugs and in the intake you may need a new set of rings soon.