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About to start fixing my XJ650 Maxim, need advice.

Discussion in 'XJ Technical Chat' started by ScreamingGigabyte, Feb 9, 2012.

  1. ScreamingGigabyte

    ScreamingGigabyte Member

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    So I've had my bike for nearly two years now and am just getting to the point where I can afford to start sinking some money into it for repairs. It's been sitting with almost a full tank of gas (no rust inside the tank) in a shop for that duration.
    I
    t was running when I got it but eventually died (I started it a few times a week to make sure it ran and kept gas flow, apparently it killed something and wouldn't start after a week or so.)

    I want to do this right, so I don't want to overlook something while fixing it. I'm gonna list what I know I should or plan to do and please let me know if I leave anything out. BTW, I know a bit about mechanics, but only so much as replacing headers and intakes on vehicles, never done any internal work.

    It is an '83 XJ650 Maxim and has about 14k miles on it. I'll list what I'm planning on doing:

    1. Valve clearance check (PO said he checked it when he bought it, bike had 3k miles when he got it and everything was in spec)
    2. Carb rebuild/clean
    3. Drain and refill brake fluid and motor oil
    4. Check rear differential fluid.
    5. New tires (both need to be replaced)
    6. Rear brake works fine, so delamination shouldn't be a problem, also the PO had checked this when he got it and said there were no issues.
    7. New battery (and new coils, which I bought with a new MC and brake lever) and new spark plugs.

    I think I've gotten it all down what I need to check/do, but I still would like some more opinions or recommendations. I'm not sure if I should even do a valve clearance check (I know I should, but I've never done internal engine work and that is something I prefer to leave alone if I can.)
     
  2. streetbrawler750

    streetbrawler750 Member

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    Valve clearance check is easy enough to do, I was about the same as you sound before joining up here. Bigfitz has a step by step on the process incredibly well done. I would say get a haynes manual and look it over aswell. That is a lot of miles on the valves between checks. As for not starting the gas probly got bad on you, carbs should go through for a cleaning, float check. May want to check the rear brake anyway, lot of years on it, worth spending the time to check.
     
  3. ScreamingGigabyte

    ScreamingGigabyte Member

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    I think I killed the battery. The gas definitely needs to be changed, when I mentioned starting it, this was back when I got it. I'll have to look up that article on how to do the valve checks, just seems complicated to me. My friend (whom i bought the bike from) is gonna look and see if he still has the service manual for it.
     
  4. lostboy2

    lostboy2 Member

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    I would most definitely check the rear brake regardless of what the po told you. Don't take that much time and can save your life.
     
  5. bigfitz52

    bigfitz52 Well-Known Member Premium Member

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    AMEN.

    The bike has spent enough time sitting if those are original shoes they need to be inspected again.

    Valve clearances need to be checked every 5000 miles, after the initial check at 3K. You will generally discover at least a couple that have gone out of spec at each check. They only get tighter, so don't put it off.

    Valve clearance check and adjust: http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=14827.html and Part Deux: http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=29209.html

    It's not a "one time" thing; it's something you'll need to get used to doing if you plan to put any miles on the bike.
     
  6. BluesBass

    BluesBass Member

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    I was in a very similar situation as you are about a year ago, and this winter I finally got the opportunity to do a full overview of the bike.

    First off, the rear drum brake MUST be checked. You are going to have the wheel off anyway when the new tire goes on, so just go ahead and check the rear brake pads. A bike is no good if it can GO but can't STOP reliably.
    Since you are already doing a fluid change on the brakes, you should probably replace your front brake lines if they are still stock. Yamaha only made them to last four years. It might not be a bad idea to pull the caliper apart and inspect it. Best case you know for a fact that the front caliper is in good shape - worst case you catch a problem BEFORE it becomes critical and spend a few bucks doing so.

    Definitely do the fluid flushes, and when you do the carb work, do yourself a favor and pick up an in-line fuel filter to install between the tank and the carburetors. Also check the condition of your petcock. If it has been sitting with old fuel there is a possibility it may need rebuilt (a fairly simple process and parts are about $30).

    Do a thorough visual inspection of the frame and suspension. Any squeaky shocks? If it is the forks, rebuild them and maybe replace the springs. If the rear, replace them. Keep an eye out for any cracks or overly rusty segments on the frame.

    And of course post pictures and questions on here. There is a plethora of information and knowledgeable minds on this site who are more than happy to guide you through the process to having a safe and reliable ride.
     
  7. ScreamingGigabyte

    ScreamingGigabyte Member

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    I'm thinking about just selling it, my cousin is supposed to come look at it soon to see if he wants it. Just too much to do and I have so little time as it is and just don't wanna dump money into a bike that I actually plan on getting rid of later this year for something newer (VFR800 probably).
     
  8. sjbonvillain

    sjbonvillain New Member

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    Hey man, I live near Lake Charles also. I have a 85' XJ700, 75' KZ900, 04' Harley. I am beginning to get my XJ going again also. We need to exchange contact info.
     

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