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Thinking of getting a 1982 XJ750. What to look for?

Discussion in 'XJ Technical Chat' started by wraith0078, Feb 3, 2009.

  1. wraith0078

    wraith0078 Member

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    So I've found an 82 Maxim 750 for sale locally with 24k miles. Current owner claims there are no issues with it aside from a little oil seepage around those black rubber plugs at the ends of the cams. From what I understand, this is pretty common.

    It looks to be in good condition, sounds good, starts right up and idles well. Still a little ice around, so I declined a test ride. Anything in particular I should look at before I get it? I have to wait for my tax return to show up first anyway...
     
    wraith0078, Feb 3, 2009
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  2. jswag5

    jswag5 Member

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    the only real issue i had with mine when i bought it was sticky brake calipers and master cylinder, make sure it shifts smoothly, and that the oil doesnt smell like fuel, mine at one time had a float stick and filled the crankcase with gas, it can be killer on old seals, and clutches. the plugs you see are actually part of the cover gasket, easy to change, mine did the same.
     
    jswag5, Feb 3, 2009
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  3. MN-Maxims

    MN-Maxims St. Paul Minnesota

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    See if all the electronics work on the dash. Check to see if the fork seals are leaking. Push the front end down and look for oil film on fork tubes. Check and see how the brakes work. Front brake for sure. Look at the fluid through the level window if not all frosted over. Check to see if all the lights function. Just give it a good once over so you know what your getting into. Good Luck
     
    MN-Maxims, Feb 3, 2009
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  4. bill

    bill Active Member

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    Not much you can't fix if it is in overall good mechanical condition. In addition to the good advice above check the compression. That will tell you a lot about the engine.
     
    bill, Feb 3, 2009
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  5. Polock

    Polock Well-Known Member

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    bump the starter button a few times quickly without letting it start if the starter grabs every time and doesn't make bad sounds the starter clutch is good
     
    Polock, Feb 3, 2009
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  6. Hack

    Hack Member

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    The above suggestions are good. I would also check the air filter. The filter and the degree of cleanliness in the airbox can be an indication of the kind of care that the PO gave the bike.

    If the valve cover is leaking, it could be the rubber washers under the cover bolts. BigFitz has some great pictures of those washers in this thread:

    http://www.xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=14827.html
     
    Hack, Feb 3, 2009
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