Total noob with an XJ650H Project... HELP!

OK, so I'm COMPLETELY new to this. I've always wanted a bike, and for $50, I got my wish. I acquired this unit that needs much TLC, but again, I am lost without help here. I am working on the title, so no need to address that. The major things I am missing is a fuel tank and carbs; I'm trying to get them on ebay, but it's a rough go. I picked up a battery, hoping to see if the bike has compression, but I don't think we're completely wired here. I'm waiting for the last owner to find the manual, but I'm about ready to crack down and just get a new one. I was in the garage today, and was able to turn the key, but after I removed it and replaced it, I can't turn it anymore. I've got a LOT of work ahead of me, and I'm making my way thru the site... but if anyone in the STL or IL area has a kind heart and lots of time & patience, I'd be honored for the help reviving this XJ.

 

btw... I can post pics...

 

iqyu79,

Welcome. You NEED a manual. Post pics. There is a lot of great help here.
Good Luck.

 

Not in the area to help.

XJ4ever Logo in the top right has manuals and everything else for these bikes.

Also check the sale/trade section here for other parts like tanks.

 

Hey man not going to be a ton of help at this point as I'm pretty close to where you are skill wise with an xj. but I am local so feel free to pm me if you ever need a bit of local help.

 

Here is your manual 1981 -- see last post and link to down load -- file only available til June 14

EDIT -- sorry forgot the link to the manual -- see last post in this thread
http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=35870.html

 

I believe I have a set of carbs for your 1981 - Hitachi 32's of course -- I am traveling now but home on Friday -- I have two extra sets of carbs -- let me know if interested.

BTW, here is my journey documented for my 1981 -- you have the raw material for a great bike (and to have great fun)... I must admit a bias -- I've not worked on the YICS motor, but I like the simpler non-YICS motor (just MY HO)(1981 last year for non-YICS I believe)

My only advice -- enjoy the journey -- be deliberate and maybe even "slow" in doing it -- and methodical -- and don't RUSH for the end product

http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=3 ... art=0.html

 

Thank you all for your posts and suggestions. dmc - you are the man... and how much for those carbs?

 

I need to look at them - I'll PM you this weekend.

 

While you are looking for a tank the XJ750 maxim tank is a direct bolt on and it is about a gallon bigger. (to the 650 maxim)

Welcome to the site.

 

Great news to know! Thank you!

 

thanks for the manual, coach!

 

Ok, so here's an update... I have replaced the ignition switch, have a wet cell clocking 13V, a fuel tank, and waiting on carbs. Ignition in the "on" position gives a green neutral light on the cluster (YAY!), but when I press the start button:
* Oil light illuminates on the cluster
* Solenoid clicks
* Starter does squat

I had the starter tested, and it spun up like a champ. I shorted out the solenoid between the posts, and got an arc (old screwdriver, yes, I read the notes). I even tried connecting the starter directly to the battery, but nothing... So what now??

 

Take of the left oil pump cover, and see if you can turn the motor over using a wrench.
If you are unable to turn the motor over. Take 1 can of PBblaster, and after removing the plugs spray even amounts into each cylinder, and into every intake/exhuast port. Let the bike sit for several days to allow the PBblaster to work.

Once you have the motor freed up. Change the oil, and filter. Do a dry/wet compression test, and check the valve clearances.

Post any information you have here, and you will be given the next steps on the road to recovery.

Ghost

 

Thanks! I will try that as soon as it's not 1000 degrees outside. I have no real ventilation or cooling system in the garage, so work is gonna have to wait. And I just got the carbs I've been waiting for. I hate it that I want to get working but can't. Also can't really leave the littl'uns in the house by themselves. *sigh* This could take a while...

 

Bet on it.

Carbs can't be sync'ed if the valves aren't in spec.

Carbs you buy off eBay will need to be rebuilt.

Once you do get it to run, you WILL have to deal with the brakes. They'll make you.

This isn't quick, nor is it easy. Effort invested initially is rewarded by not having to do it over. Get sloppy, cut corners, or try to shortcut "the process" and you'll just have to revisit. Honest.

 

Oh, I have no problem with the work that's going to have to be done. I'm just eager to get in and get my hands dirty, but time, work, kids (and weather right now) don't really permit. I didn't start this thinking or expecting it to be easy. I want that satisfied feeling of hearing that engine turn over after all the work I put into restoration.