FJ1200 1987 NOT STARTING TODAY

[hook line n sinker]

Hi new to the forum have a very tired old 87 fj1200 , 87,000miles on the clock . She  has been sitting outside in the snow while i had the flu for the last 5 days , tried starting her today to let her idle and dry out a bit . Turned over fine but didnt start battery then died , smelt a little flooded petrol smell for a while . Got the battery on charge indoors on a bike charger unit . Was wondering when starting these bikes does one engage the choke before starting or after it has started ? Also i keep hearing about a fuel pump do fj1200s have one i mean they arent injection ? This fj has had 27 previous owners on the v5 anyone recognise her lol https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AZcwKXs4Puw

[FJmonkey]

Welcome new guy, got a name we can call you? The FJ does not like to be cold, full choke to start, and a depending how cold a few minutes before riding. I assume it ran 5 days ago so not long enough to gum up the carbs yet.

[hook line n sinker]

Hi yes sorry Matts the name , and thanks for the advice im guessing ive upset it leaving it in the cold  

[fj1289]

The FJ ignition system can be unreliable with low battery voltages or a battery with a bad cell or two. I've had one that would crank but not run right. Checked carbs, changed plugs etc. new battery solved it

[FJmonkey]

Hi yes sorry Matts the name , and thanks for the advice im guessing ive upset it leaving it in the cold  

Yes, the FJ is a fickle mistress when left in the cold and wet. I am finding a new home for my home brew equipment so I can move my FJ inside where she belongs.

[fj11.5]

Bring her down here, 26c today should dry out in a few hours

[movenon]

0 C here and it was a good day. The sun is still up there, I actually seen it and I was sober .
George

[fj11.5]

Well at least its not snowing mate, , mind you if it was any warmer i wouldnt feel like moving house 

[hook line n sinker]

Put charged battery back in and she started straight up , ordered a newy from Ebay as the current one wont go to green on the charger just amber . Fj s are delightfully cheap compared to my old k75s which was mad expensive for nearly everything . Think i might get some new plugs as well . Ive noticed the front forks are absolutely worn out can  i stick forks from a 93 on a 87 ?

[FJmonkey]

Ive noticed the front forks are absolutely worn out can  i stick forks from a 93 on a 87 ?

Yes, but you will need the wheel, rotors, and calipers (not the ABS version). If you are gonna do it then get an 87/88 FZR1000 front wheel and get the 3.5" wide vs. the 3.0" wide that came with the FJ. Either way you will have a 17" front end and more really good tire options than you have now. I have 17" front and back and I am really happy with the modern rubber and better handling. But be careful, upgrading your bike leads to a condition we call Moditus, more addictive than Crack and you can't get the shit eating grin of your face. Upgrade your forks with the RPM valves and fork brace, the front will fee so planted in the corners. 

[movenon]

Ive noticed the front forks are absolutely worn out can  i stick forks from a 93 on a 87 ?

"But be careful, upgrading your bike leads to a condition we call Moditus, more addictive than Crack"