FJ1200 project for newbie

[smackeyacky]

Have only just started riding (on a Moto Guzzi V65) but couldn't resist picking up a project FJ1200.

Wanted one forever but didn't have a motorcycle license.  This one has a few issues, clutch not working, front brake is spongy but the worst is a fuel leak down at the carbs.  Have partly dismantled it and found a pile of old, bad fuel line I'm replacing as a first step.

I won't legally be allowed to ride it for another 12 months but looking forward to carefully tearing it apart so when I do ride it, she'll be perfect.  Hoping to get some sage advice on how to proceed.

[fj1289]

Congrats!

For a first project - do the little things - that is all this thing will need to run.

Please don't get too involved or take too much apart - that greatly decreases the chances of a successful ending.   

There are lots of people here and lots of good posts in the files section that will cover everything you need to know.  And don't be afraid to ask if you have any questions!

Good luck! 

I assume to bike has been sitting a while.  First thing I would focus on is getting the engine running.  Will probably need carbs cleaned (a whole task in itself) and battery.  Fuel lines and filter sound smart too.  Your leak probably come from a sticking float or dried up o-rings in the carbs. 

Chris

[smackeyacky]

Thanks Chris.

Getting it running is my priority.  Have a new battery and it does kick over and run very badly but fuel is pouring out.  I think the carbs will have to come off but I will start with the fuel hose.

[FJmonkey]

Post up the year of your FJ, it looks like an 89 in the image with a fuel pump. The difference? 89+ has a fuel pumps, before that, gravity feed. Keep up the good work. 

[smackeyacky]

It's a 1993 model, compliance plate says FJ1200B

[smackeyacky]

[FJmonkey]

Rubber engine mounts, smooth....

[smackeyacky]

Hopefully smooth!  It's actually in nice nick other than missing the belly pan.  Has been sitting for a couple of years though.

I was looking for the "Contributor" link on the forum - is it supposed to be on the bottom of the page somewhere?

[FJmonkey]

Randy has some details to sort out. Randy had to upgrade the software or lose support from Simple Machines recently. Not all the older custom links like the Donate Button migrated. However, I am sure Randy will have options.

[RPM - Robert]

For now donations are still via PayPal and can be sent to randy@rpmracingca.com

[smackeyacky]

Thanks Robert will make a contribution.

[Millietant]

Jeez Smackey....that's one heck of a top box mount and frame you have on there. Ditching it will save like 100 lbs of high up rearward weight. Gotta improve the bikes handling no end 

[Pat Conlon]

Jeez Smackey....that's one heck of a top box mount and frame you have on there. Ditching it will save like 100 lbs of high up rearward weight. Gotta improve the bikes handling no end 

Good call Dean, exactly my thought.

[red]

Have only just started riding (on a Moto Guzzi V65) but couldn't resist picking up a project FJ1200.
Wanted one forever but didn't have a motorcycle license.  This one has a few issues, clutch not working, front brake is spongy but the worst is a fuel leak down at the carbs.  Have partly dismantled it and found a pile of old, bad fuel line I'm replacing as a first step.
I won't legally be allowed to ride it for another 12 months but looking forward to carefully tearing it apart so when I do ride it, she'll be perfect.  Hoping to get some sage advice on how to proceed.

smackeyacky,

Wow, a Moto Guzzi.  Nice classy ride!  Welcome to the campfire.  Pull up a seat, relax, and be among friends.  The clutch may need bleeding.  Use the correct brake fluid only, as marked on the clutch reservoir.  Speedbleeders.com will make it an easy, one-person job.  Good for brakes and clutch bleeding. Get their fluid catch bag, as well.

Hopefully, new fuel lines will fix the leaking fuel.  RPM (the FJ forum owner) rebuilds carbs, if you want a pro to do the work.  They also have Allen screw sets for the carbs, a nice option if you can swing it.

I am a believer in Motorcycle Safety Courses, or any good riding instruction that you can find.  You want both saddle time and classroom time, if possible.  There is nothing better (IMHO) that you can do while waiting for your license.

Send updates when you can.  For any problems, somebody on the forum probably has had and fixed such things, and will share what they know here.

The adventure begins . . .
.