The beginning of the end.....1983 XJ750 Maxim

This is my first bike ever, I've ridden dirt bikes and mini bikes in my life, but never had a motorcycle. I want to get this beast on the road and going. Would like to know where I should start. Any and all help would be appreciated.

 

More pictures of the bike.

 

Even more pictures.

 

Looks to me that you have all the important bits.
What I woud do is:
* decide if you want to rebuild stock or custom
Assuming you go for stock, then
* get at least one service manual
* rebuild the Rolling frame: repair rust and damage, front and rear brakes, wheel bearings, stearing bearing, clean all connectors on the wiring harnass
* mount starter motor (photo 5 top left) to engine, change oil and perform compression test
* rebuild engine if needed
* rebuild carbs
* install airbox, engine and carbs
* clean and install all the parts that you have left
* changes the tires
* start the engine and enjoy the ride

 

welcome to the forum. before I spent any money on any of it, I would do the compression test. if the engine is junk, then it would be cheaper to find a running replacement.

FU

 

Welcome. Was this bike running when you bought it or did come in the basket? Does the engine turn over or is it seized? Having a running engine would be the first start, any other parts, I would wait. Tearing down an engine can be a daunting task if it's your first time. You may want a mentor or a buddies help.

 

Step 1: Read; http://www.xjbikes.com/forums/index.php?threads/the-information-overload-hour.27544/

Step 1.5: Buy a factory service manual, and the Haynes shop manual (yes you need both).

Step 2: Do everything...patiently. You are blessed (?) with an advantage...most of the disassembly for inspection has already been done for you.

Step 4: MSF course.

Step 5: Ride.

 

Wow, K-moe... you make it seem effortless! Wanna fix mine in five easy steps for me? Also, what's Step 3?
As for Dusti, welcome to the group. Apparently those Midnight Maxims are a bit more rare than the average XJ. Good luck with your build!

 

Not just an 83 XJ750 Maxim, but a MIDNIGHT Maxim, at that.

 

I don't usually mention step 3. Nobody enjoys step 3.

 

That must be where all the real work is hiding.

 

The bike was as pictured when it was "given" to me. I've got a few guys at work that are good with motors and things of that nature. One rebuilds classic cars and the other is a tuner head. But I think between the two of them and all of you gents I'll be fine. I took the carbs off of the motor and it seems that they are in desperate need of some T.L.C., so I'm in the process of doing that. Does anyone have any recommendations on a good rebuild kit for those.

 

Check out Chacal. He's a member here. Runs the shop advertised in top corner

 

Progress.....

 

One bit of advice; don't dip the carb bodies. The throttle shaft seals will not survive (thought they probably need to be changed anyway by the looks of the rest of the carbs condition.

 

More progress.

 

Does anyone have the service manual for my bike in pdf format that I can get?