1989 3cv FJ1200 overheating?

[ally]

hi all

just back to the FJ fold with a new purchase, an '89 3cv with 30k miles

the bike runs well but appears to be overheating (62f ambient), when stopped and attempted to restart it struggles

I understand there may be a starter issue (having done some googling) but suspect the engine is getting tight, I've just complete about 120 miles and used an indicated 3/4 tank of fuel, having not fuelled up yet I do know the accuracy of the gauge

I do have other air cooled bikes and is definitely hotter than my other steeds

I have asked the previous owner what oil was used at it's last service in case it's synthetic but wondered what else to look at

on start up with the choke if smells very rich and the exhausts are quite dirty so do not expect a lean issue, has air scoops fitted for the head

I'll have the plugs out tomorrow for a peek for information and to see if they are the correct grade, oil level is correct

any pointers would be great and how would I diagnose an oil pump issue?



ps - brakes are not binding

[FJmonkey]

A hot start problem does not mean you have an over heating issue. A weak start problem is common with the FJ. Make sure the connections to the starter are clean and tight. Make sure your battery is not weak during load (starting). Upgrading to a 4 pole starter has been reported as a good fix. Upgrading to a Li battery has also been reported with good results. I find cracking the throttle open about 1/8 during starting seems to help.

[ally]

thanks monkey

starts fine when cold but not when hot, I understand there could be a resistance issue happening

it's the heavy fuel consumption and my subjective reading of the heat that is worrying me, I plan to pull the plugs tomorrow for a condition check (and rating), I have an oil temp gauge for the oil filler somewhere, will run that and a temp gun on the casing

I heard back from the owner and silkolene semi synth 10w/40 filled at the last service



ps, the battery was replaced recently by the previous owner but will check connections

[ELIMINATOR]

My 3CV gets hot, I remember being concerned when I first got the bike, my comparison is my BMW 1150GS. Although no hot start issues.

The rocker box covers get very hot, I almost had a "Kung Fu" moment ( old tv series for you youngsters out there) I had a nice burn mark on the inside of my forearm.

[Tuned forks]

Oh man ELIMINATOR, I remember that Kung Fu scene!

Joe

[aviationfred]

FJmonkey hits most of the points for common hot start issues.

I had a similar hot start issue with my 89. The problem ended up being a weak starter solenoid. Also as a good preventative maintenance task. Remove, disassemble, clean your starter, reassemble and reinstall. You will be amazed at how well it works after a good cleaning.



Fred

[ally]

thanks all

I took my suzuki dr750 out the other day and the temperature of the clutch cover was similar to the FJ, I think I associated the difficulty restarting and the heath with over heating

I'll do as you've suggested

cheers

[ELIMINATOR]

My 3CV gets hot, I remember being concerned when I first got the bike, my comparison is my BMW 1150GS. Although no hot start issues.

The rocker box covers get very hot, I almost had a "Kung Fu" moment ( old tv series for you youngsters out there) I had a nice burn mark on the inside of my forearm.

Forgot to say that this is on my Moto Guzzi