Subject: Break in period
Author: Scheer, Peter L
Date: May 14, 2001, 7:11 PM
Post ID: 1706723065
Got 600 mi in on the 71 since getting it on the road 4 weeks ago. Initial
shifting problems ( not finding neutral, popping out of gear) has gone away.
Probably the rider has learned how to shift without beating up the linkage.
The sneezing or one missed firing seems to have stopped in the last 200 mi.
Maybe there was some crud in the carbs. I haven't cleaned them yet.
I learned I have fuel for 4 miles in reserve before going bone dry.
Brakes seem to have seated in pretty well. Much better than when I
started.
All in all I am pretty satisfied with the performance. The bike has not
been registered since 1978, so I dont think it got much attention in the
past 20+ years. All I had to do was put in new tires, brakes, battery,
brake and speedo cable, plug wires, horns and added horns an light relays.
replace corroded terminals and add directional signals and mirrors. Grease
head bearings and rear drive, synch the carbs, change fluids and it all
seemed to work.
I haven't touched carbs or timing or guts of engine or trans.
Future plans: replace left header pipe ( restricted), tap in some fittings
to allow vacuum synch'ing, add tube for 1 petcock to give some reserve
range, check timing, try hotter plugs, add highway bars, new solo seat, new
rear shocks. Fresh chrome parts and paint ( way in the future)
This has been a great experience so far. Thanks to all who have directly
helped me with advice and support. And thanks to all who have asked
questions and those who answered. Its been a great leaning experience just
to read the exchanges. Its too bad I cant make the W NY rally in June.
Some day, I'll meet you guys
Pete in Harrisburg Pa
71 Ambassador