1982 XJ1100 new owner

I wanted to share the beginning of my journey and introduce myself and my new project.

My name is Mark, I'm 56 yrs old and have a lifetime of wrenching experience, I have been a MAZDA factory certified Tech since about 1996 and have been riding and wrenching on motorcycles since I was about 13 yrs old. That doesn't make me an expert but it does mean Iv'e learned lots about what to do and not to do when it comes to repairs. I have definitely made my share of mistakes over the years (and still do from time to time)! Just bought a 1982 XJ1100 "project" bike. It has not been started in about 8 years according to the PO, so I have a bit of work to do before it will be ready for riding. Seems to be in fair condition overall but the PO was part-way through changing several systems that he didn't like -- for example the linked brakes and the "connected" front forks... he is a very experienced mechanic and says he rebuilt the carbs before he let it sit for 8 yrs but I am thinking it will be a good idea to go through them anyway because he let them sit without any kind of covering over the carb intakes so they have had 8 yrs worth of exposure to dust etc. not really a good idea in my opinion. It is missing the cap and rubber diaphragm for the rear brake master cylinder and since he was in the process of removing the linked brakes I am wondering if the MC from an XS1100 will bolt up and work? I hope so as they seem to be easier to find! Am also wondering if I should put the original forks and brake system back on? Lot's to ponder and figure out! There are of course LOTS of little things that need attention! I hope to learn a lot about these bikes and have a lot of fun along the way!

 

Welcome to the camp.
Here is some good info to read to get you prepared for what lies ahead. Your Mazda experience will go along way into making you an XJ 'certified' tech. You will find all of your answers in this community.

Read this: http://xjbikes.com/forums/threads/the-information-overload-hour.27544/

 

Welcome Mark
I am an original owner of an 82 1100 / I am pretty sure I have the master-cylinder cap you need, be glad to send to you. Parts are sometimes very difficult to find for the 1100. Be glad to share any info and help you may need. You can contact me at xj1100dan@gmail
Dan

 

I notice pod filters on the carbs. Do a search here and read up on the pros and cons. It'll probably answer a lot of questions as you troubleshoot.

 

Thanks for the welcome and information, both are very much appreciated! As you all know (and I am finding out) parts for these bikes are indeed hard to find so I truly appreciate any offer for the few (so far) parts I need! LTDan -- I will take you up on your kind offer and will contact you through email concerning specifics of shipping, payment etc. Can't say thanks enough! Brakes are kinda important .
Speaking of contacting members -- I have not yet been able to find how to PM people. I know I'm just not looking in the right place but some direction to the right spot would be great!
Let the journey begin!

 

Go to "inbox" on the upper right and start a conversation that way (you just need to know the user's name).

 

Yeah, when I got the bike it had nothing protecting the carbs so I put on those pods that I had laying around the shop, just to keep out the dust. I am not a fan of pod filters so as soon as I can find an OEM airbox (if I can find one) I will be installing one.
Thanks for the info on sending a PM!

 

Mark
I do have the M-C cap and diaphragm, and the 3 nuts. Be glad to send them to you, no charge, just need an address. On brakes the correct "K&L" caliper rebuild kit part numbers are-- Front 32-1605 you will need 2 / Rear 32-1602
Dan

 

xs11.com is another good resource for the XJ1100, as both bikes share the same engine (and other parts).

 

I just bought an XJ 1100 as well...gonna need some work it is great condition over all. It's kinda cool to see soany XJ owners here...cause I am a carpenter/builder rather than a bike mechanic. I am sure y'all will see me here often

 

Welcome aboard.

Gary H.

 

Want to thank LTDAN for so kindly sending me a cover and diaphragm for the rear master cylinder!! Much appreciated!! Progress will be slow but will happen. The first thing I will do is connect an auxiliary gas tank and the necessary plumbing and see if this thing will run, as is. I also just acquired a 1978 CB750K project which needs as much work as the XJ (maybe more, but it does start and run) so my time will be shared between the two. Can't wait to fire up the XJ!
Before I get any farther along with my journey I want to ask the Moderators if I should start a new thread under a different section or if it will be ok to continue using this thread for the duration of my project? or perhaps this one could be moved?
P.S. Gary M. -- Congratulations and welcome!

 

I'm not a moderator, but here's my 2 cents: start a new thread in the technical section. Hangout lounge threads are a free for all that sometimes go far (FAR) off track. Maple bacon whiskey, anyone?

 

Yes please.

 

I'll watch for your posts as I do work on a XJ1100 myself!