Hey y'all, I'm new here.
TL;DR - I have an '89 fj1200 that's been sitting for a minimum of 7 years and I want to get it running again - please suggest the proper steps / manuals to achieve this goal
Long version: my great uncle was a motorcycle mechanic and took on an '89 fj1200 to repair i assume. I don't know when he took it on, but I know it has been there for many years before his death. I don't know if he owned it or if someone brought it to him to be repaired. He lived in Texas (so do i) but the bike has colorado tags and is dated 7 - 12, so obviously i need to obtain a title. But seeing as how the bike is on my property now (I inherited the land) I can easily obtain an abandoned vehicle title. The bike has been outside under direct sunlight for the entirety of its purgatory sentence. Obviously I will need to get a new seat (or take it to be re-upholstered) and change all fluids, clean the gas tank and new tires. Please give me suggestions on what parts to buy new / inspect so I dont ultimately screw up. I would also like to know a reputable source to get an in depth manual should I have to disassemble the bike / motor. Sorry for the saga that I just published, lol.
Welcome to the forums. My '89 sat for 16 years and here is what I did to get it going again:
http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=19343.0 (http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=19343.0)
Some of it may be helpful!
Welcome
RPM - the banner up above - is your source for all things FJ.
Since you don't know if it was running or not when it was parked, you may have a little more detective work to do. On the other hand, maybe all the work was completed and he never paid for it.
Always the basics
First make sure the engine turns over
Then start checking for spark and compression.
The carbs will surely need a THOROUGH cleaning - usually takes at least twice - often three times or more until they are good and clean.
Good luck!
I've never owned a bike that has not ran for that amount of time.
As stated earlier, check that engine turns over, may be best to put it into top gear and see if the bike can be pushed along.
Once that's established, change the oil & spark plugs, drain the petrol tank, see what it looks like inside, rinse with petrol, then see if it starts.
If you are lucky, the bike had the fuel turned off, & the engine was ran until the carbs ran out of fuel.