Top Motorcycle
Restoration Tips
- Record every step of the strip-down with
a digital camera, or even with a simple sketch
it'll be invaluable later.
- Carry out extensive research on your intended
project before parting with any cash.
- Avoid boxes of parts that masquerade as
complete bikes unless the price is irresistible
it may work but it'll be bloody hard work!
- Try to plan for the worst-case scenario
when buying.
- Whenever possible, join the owners club
well in advance of parting with serios cash.
- Try to buy within the club too most members
know each other's machines and can offer advice
on value etc.
- Watch prices and check with a dealer before
diving in on eBay.
- It can often prove more cost effective to
buy new fittings rather than risk losing them
while being replaced etc.
- Spread the word, tell all and sundry what
you're doing, somebody will know of the part
you are looking for, so spreading the word
can only be positive.
- Attend as many classic shows as possible
to gather information and contacts, as well
as scouring the autojumbles, the latter is
especially important if you are restoring
a rare classic bike.
- Patience is a must when parts are scarce,
sometimes bringing the project to a standstill
is best rather than risk compromising the
end result.
- Ask questions. If it just needs a spark
plug to run then why hasn't the owner done
so?
- Engine PJ Motorcycle Engineers offer a door-to-door
rebuilding service.
- Make sure the wiring loom is in good condition,
£100 for a brand new loom is an easier
pill to swallow than fault-curing night after
night in the garage.
- Don't let two-strokes sit idle, condensation
means they will rust from the inside out once
the oil/fuel has evaporated. Start it regularly.
- When applying transfers, put them in a bucket
of warm water with a dash of fairy liquid.
Wet the panel with the water then remove the
sticker's backing and place on the panel.
It'll float on the water. Position it just
right, then use a spatula to squeeze out the
water from behind.
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