No, I'm not building the next hipster noir bobber feature for EXIF. This is actually step one in deep cleaning Project 13. By removing the seat subframe and fender, accessibility is really opened up for detailing and condition inspection for the rear portion of the machine. I expect to be replacing the rear shock assembly, so it's now more accessible too. Note that the drive chain and front sprocket are removed in anticipation of replacing those components, along with the rear sprocket, of course. Removing the carb rack and sealing the intake tracts with plastic allows me to easily clean and rinse the intake valley. Likewise, removing the radiator and hoses allows much easier access to the front head for valve clearance checks.
I scrub everything with a biodegradable degreaser, a purple one with the unimaginative name of Super Clean which I get from the local big-box home improvement store. Some of these degreasers can etch bare aluminum, but this one seems pretty safe. Twenty nine years of chain grunge doesn't come off without a fight but perseverance will win the day. The forks will be removed for steering head bearing service, so that area will be detailed in its own good time.
This may be the nastiest chore in refurbishing the VFRs, but there's a certain satisfaction in the results. There's much work ahead, but no one likes to wrench on a dirty machine.
I scrub everything with a biodegradable degreaser, a purple one with the unimaginative name of Super Clean which I get from the local big-box home improvement store. Some of these degreasers can etch bare aluminum, but this one seems pretty safe. Twenty nine years of chain grunge doesn't come off without a fight but perseverance will win the day. The forks will be removed for steering head bearing service, so that area will be detailed in its own good time.
This may be the nastiest chore in refurbishing the VFRs, but there's a certain satisfaction in the results. There's much work ahead, but no one likes to wrench on a dirty machine.
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