81 Yamaha XJ 650 discussion forum: RE: lookin 4 a little guidence
Title
RE: lookin 4 a little guidence 
Entered by
Fred Lehmann 
Date
2005-11-12 20:38:09 
A lot depends on how the bike was stored. First the carburetors, if the gas has not been drained there may be gum and other contaminates in the carbs. It would be best to have a motorcycle mechanic rebuild and synchronize the carbs. Also the gas tank may have rust. You can find kits on the internet to clean and refinish the inside of your tank. Put a gas line filter between the tank and the carbs.
The motor oil and filter should be changed. Also the rear drive oil needs to be changed. The forks of XJ650 I just bought have started leaking. My mechanic said it?s a $180.00 plus parts job to replace the seals and wipers. He said a ?shade tree? fix is to use brake fluid in the forks instead of fork oil, to cause the seals to swell. I have not done that yet.
The valve clearance should be checked and new spark plugs are called for to be on the safe side.
I bought new Suzuki S50 (800 cc Intruder) this summer and about a month later got the Yamaha for my son to ride when he visits. I almost like the 25 year old Yamaha better than the Suzuki. My wife definitely like it better (more comfortable ride). I am told the XJ 650 engine and transmission are practically bullet proof. It handles like it is much lighter than it 500+ pounds. 
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