Greetings from SoCal. Not new to the site but haven't been too active - partly because I haven't had a lot of time to spend on my FJ until recently and partly because it really hasn't had any major issues since buying from an old friend and original owner ten years ago. So, with that introduction, here is my question about my FJ:
How long do well maintained FJ engines last? I've read that there are design specifications that manufacturers build their engines and other components to such as, for example: the clutch will last 50,000 miles before requiring replacement, the cam chain will last 75,000 miles under normal use, the engine will last 100,000 miles before requiring a top end overhaul . I recently read a Q&A letter to a vintage motorcycle magazine from an old BMW owner complaining about oil consumption or something such as this and the response started out with the statement that BMW designed the engine to last 250,000 miles with proper maintenance.
I own a well cared for 84 with 42,000 miles on it. Transmission is solid and never slips in the bottom gears, it doesn't burn oil although does use a small amount after long periods of high speed highway use, and starts immediately with the push of the button. Can I expect this thing to last longer than I will or am I just around the corner from needing a major overhaul?
A bunch of owners, like myself, have well over 100,000 miles on their FJ.
Lee C might chime in with his current mileage, but I know it is over 200,000 miles.
Ride-on!
Your question made me think of this post. http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=15690.0 (http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=15690.0)
Quote from: fjbiker84 on June 28, 2016, 06:57:14 AM
I own a well cared for 84 with 42,000 miles on it.
Just ride it, it will most likely outlast you. Plenty of bikes on the forum with 2,3,4 even 5 times that mileage, all original and still going strong. There's enough worry warts here already.
Noel
Quote from: Tuneforkfreak on June 28, 2016, 07:52:08 AM
Your question made me think of this post. http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=15690.0 (http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=15690.0)
Like I replied in the above post recently I have over 210,000km or ~130,500 mi, and there are many guys with more. As far as I know my engine has never been apart. Original starter, electrics, etc. Just keep up on the basic maintenance and suspension and the engine will tractor along forever if it's in stock condition and not abused too much.
Just as the guys said it will outlast you. That being said a 30 yr old bike will have it's quirks, which by now you are probably aware of. So have a big sigh of reief and go for a ride. A prescription tha usually works for me. :music:
Here is the post from FjLee
http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=13743.msg147292#msg147292 (http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=13743.msg147292#msg147292)
G'day,
My FJ1100 hit around 250,000kms before burning an exhaust valve, necessitating removal of the head and discovering that all the valve guides are knackered, and valves at the end of their useable life. The transmission is in great condition, needs a starter chain replacement though.
I cannot wait to start rebuilding the engine for a spare, only needs a few things.
cheers, Gareth
Thanks for the info! I am a worry wart - but it's nice to know how solid the FJ was put together. Now, if I could only do something about all the damn cars on the 405......
Quote from: fjbiker84 on June 28, 2016, 06:28:49 PM
Thanks for the info! I am a worry wart - but it's nice to know how solid the FJ was put together. Now, if I could only do something about all the damn cars on the 405......
Well, you could join an FJ ride sometime in July that I am loosely organizing. I am thinking of going south to Ocean Side/San Diego to avoid some of the heat.
Would like to make that. Will put it on my calendar as soon as you settle on a date.