Steve's 1985 FJ1100 restoration in San Diego

[STLanduyt]

The carbs are with RPM, as already mentioned, and are currently soaking to dissolve "the ethanol gunk in the bowls and carb bodies" per RPM ... meanwhile I removed the exhaust pipes and de-rusted them using Rustoleum Rust Dissolver, which took off the rust and revealed a very shiny dark grey surface on the pipes, albeit with very tiny "pinpoints" of silver all over.

I had initially thought of painting the pipes, but am now thinking of leaving them in their current state.  Any thoughts or experiences out there on just leaving the pipes alone?

Steve

[Waiex191]

I had initially thought of painting the pipes, but am now thinking of leaving them in their current state.  Any thoughts or experiences out there on just leaving the pipes alone?

Steve

Some of the guys have polished their pipes.  They are stainless underneath. 
This is Noel's picture:

[STLanduyt]

The bare stainless pipes are beautiful!  That may be something I will consider in the future, but in the present I am inclined to leave them in their original color.

Another question that I have is how to improve the appearance of the weathered engine. 

The picture below shows a side view of the current exterior condition of the engine, which sat in a carport for many years and suffered serious weathering, as you can see.  The only surviving original gloss black paint on the engine is on the valve cover, which was protected by the tank.  The cooling fins are now bare metal.

What are the options for improving the appearance of the engine while it is on the bike beyond doing a thorough cleaning? 

You cannot view this attachment.

Steve