finally got started.

Well, I was finally able to pick, up my '83 maxim yesterday from the garage where I had been storing it. It's not in terrible shape, but it's definitely a project. I got started yesterday by removing the carbs. The carb boots are cracked badly, I looked them up on bikebandit.com: $62 a piece. That means replacing them will cost over $250 with shipping. I think they are getting coated in silicone or something, because that is ridiculous.
I also need to either find another gas tank, or fix this one. It kind of weird to see. There is a spot where the fuel sweats through the paint. The paint looks fine, but the fuel in the tank actually seeps through the paint. It must have rusted from the inside. I could fit a harley peanut tank on it, so I have options, but I really like the original style and would like to reuse it.
The fuel was yellow when I drained it. The carb needles where sticky with yellow goo but it came off easily with deep creep. The float bowls didn't look too bad. There was gunk in them, but it came out easily. The main jets were clear. I'll have to open them back up when I get a small enough screw driver for the pilot jets. For some reason they are recessed pretty deep.
Why does it seem like like all the hardware on this '83 seems a better quality than my 2005. Carb screws that haven't been touched in 25 years, came out with a little effort.The pms screws are solid, like something you might expect on a tractor, where the ones on the v-star strip when you turn them a few times. This bike feels solid, I'm digging working on it.

 

First off, good luck with the project. Second, I think you are either getting lucky with the screws coming out easily or are just doing it right. The trick is to use tools that have no play in them. I spend alot of time at the grinder making my drivers fit snug in the slots. As far as the tank goes. There are products out there that will enable you to seal the tank. I used one on a BMW project I did a few years ago and worked well.
They are wonderful bike with a lot of soul. Enjoy it.
The Buff

 

Good luck man! I just picked up an 82 xj650 last Saturday. I already took the tank and carbs off as well. Once again, good luck with your project!