The weather is fantastic now. But there is already some sharp cold in the morning air. We can start dreaming again about what we are going to do this winter. Because winter time is not just a one-hour shift of the clock, but the chance to tinker. It's time for projects again.
Because projects are fun
Because in recent years the interest in classic motorcycles, as being projects, has fallen drastically. And you notice that in the prices. A whole bunch of explanations have been devised for that decline in interest in classics that are not in top condition. But this is not a site for psychological analysis.
The range of motorcycles 'with work' is there
There are also possibilities to tackle that 'work' good. First, there is currently a huge amount of tools that were once used exclusively in professional garage or overhaul companies simply for sale at our advertisers. And all that nice looking tasty tools is not even expensive.
A motorcycle lift is an investment that is actually indispensable and will last for generations. But you can also make such a thing yourself from a rejected hospital bed.
Tinkering yourself, you don't have to be a highly talented technician for that
First, you determine the level of difficulty of your work. But just as important is that you work calmly and systematically. Take photos in advance so that you know afterwards how what was and where. Store things clearly, marked and sorted. Make notes. Search for sample videos on youtube and provide a workshop manual.
The parts can still be found for many classic motorcycles
You will also often find them in a club in the friendly corner. New 'reference' parts for British engines and Harlies are known for their not always consistent fit. So do not buy in digital blind trust.
Black is important
Black parts can of course be tackled with spray cans from the Action, but powder coating is better. Most powder coaters collect motorcycle parts to run them in a production run. That those parts are then black has been taken into account for all parties. Note, however, that black motorcycle parts require a UV-resistant powder coat layer. Powder coating for indoor use (wardrobe doors, etc.) tends to turn gray under the influence of sunlight.
Really indispensable
A few things are indispensable for working on bolts and nuts: WD40, patience and a torque wrench. Giving bolts and nuts a shot of WD40 twice a day for a week can be the difference between loosening or breaking off. Drilling broken pieces of threaded rod in a crankcase half or cylinder head? Well: we already mentioned it. And such a vertical drill string does not cost the whole world. The correct positioning of the component under it requires time and attention. Make a point with a center punch in the broken end and STAY OUT OF THE DRILLS OF THE FORMER MARKETS. Which they usually good for single use. The purchase of a set of drills from a real tool trade is just about the best investment that you - after Googling once how fast the drill must turn for optimum machining - is one of the better investments.
100% Agree naturally. I also have a winter job that I have been doing for three years now 🙂 But well: Going to the pub is more expensive and it keeps us off the street! Good luck!
What I think may be mentioned is the fact that you also have to calculate the time in addition to the costs. Then add a factor of 3x after the time calculation, because you are just doing old things that you want to put together well. I am in the final phase of my winter project that started last February. When you dismantle an old engine (for the first time) you always come across more work than what it started with. And you also want to put it together in 1x. Certainly if you want a better half behind. All in all, I haven't driven a meter this year? Hopefully before 1 December. Otherwise he has to sleep 3 for months.