1. Hello Guest. You have limited privileges and you can't "SEARCH" the forums. Please "Log In" or "Sign Up" for additional functionality. Click HERE to proceed.

How long should an xj550 engine/transmission last?

Discussion in 'Hangout Lounge' started by Kauaikev, Jan 9, 2018.

  1. Kauaikev

    Kauaikev New Member

    Messages:
    1
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    1
    Location:
    Kauai
    Hi, I’m new to the forum. I was just wondering how long an xj 550 should last?
     
  2. MattiThundrrr

    MattiThundrrr Not a guru

    Messages:
    3,690
    Likes Received:
    1,665
    Trophy Points:
    113
    Location:
    America's friendly hat
    It all depends on maintenance. So far, none have lasted 40 years. ;)
     
    hogfiddles likes this.
  3. Simmy

    Simmy Well-Known Member

    Messages:
    2,261
    Likes Received:
    1,126
    Trophy Points:
    113
    Location:
    Waterloo Ontario Canada
    A good hammer should last your lifetime, as long as you replace the head and the handle now and then.
    I agree with Matti, most old bikes fail because of sitting long periods without maintenance.
     
    chacal likes this.
  4. hogfiddles

    hogfiddles XJ-Wizard, Host-Central NY Carb Clinic Moderator Premium Member

    Messages:
    14,626
    Likes Received:
    5,008
    Trophy Points:
    113
    Location:
    near utica, new york
    33 yrs or more
     
  5. Simmy

    Simmy Well-Known Member

    Messages:
    2,261
    Likes Received:
    1,126
    Trophy Points:
    113
    Location:
    Waterloo Ontario Canada
    Most think the longevity depends on the metal on metal parts with oil film between as the components determining long life.
    I think the rubber parts have a service life of about 30 years before they loose their sealing abilities.
    The rubber parts in the carbs are the 1st area of failure, probably more XJ's get parked because of this.
     
    Chitwood likes this.
  6. a100man

    a100man Well-Known Member

    Messages:
    1,597
    Likes Received:
    346
    Trophy Points:
    83
    Location:
    Bedford, UK
    In terms of miles 80k or even 100k I should should be doable before the metal bits are worn through use (bores, bearings, cams etc..) chances are
    though that a bike left standing for several years can be subject to rust via condensation etc.. Saying that the 550 motor I opened up lat years had been standing for 16 years and the top-end at least looked pretty damn clean. Like others have said rubber bits will probably be of more concern than metal bits in most cases as they harden and become less effective.
     
  7. Craig B

    Craig B Active Member

    Messages:
    160
    Likes Received:
    63
    Trophy Points:
    28
    Location:
    Ontario, Canada
    Forever.......if decently looked after and not abused .
     

Share This Page