As my 1993 VFR750 awaits its freshly painted wheels, clutch cover and newly upholstered seat to be ready, I've dipped my toe into Project 41, a blue/silver 1987 VFR700F2 in need of full restoration.
(Below) I've already stripped the bodywork in preparation for a badly-needed bath, and next I'll remove the carburetors to begin the process of getting the engine running. The first thing I encounter isn't encouraging, as someone has made a go-fast modification to the airbox lid in the form of 50+ precisely placed holes. So, first thing on the parts list is a replacement lid.
With the carbs lifted free the barn dirt shows itself in the cylinder valley. A peek into the carb bowls reveals the expected gummy varnish coating the brass jets. But everything's intact, the control linkages are free and there's no other obvious issues at this point.
(click on an image to enlarge)
With the carbs lifted free the barn dirt shows itself in the cylinder valley. A peek into the carb bowls reveals the expected gummy varnish coating the brass jets. But everything's intact, the control linkages are free and there's no other obvious issues at this point.
(click on an image to enlarge)
Some good news; a look into the intake passages shows the cleanest valves and guides I've ever found in a VFR engine. I wonder what the secret was to keeping those so deposit-free on this 33K-mile engine. That red streak might hold a clue — did the previous owner regularly add Marvel Mystery Oil to the gas?
(Below) More bad news as I find the instrument panel to be loose on its mounts. A quick inspection revealed the cause — all three mounting points have been broken free of the housing. Fortunately, I have a spare housing if we get to that point.
The sequence is familiar: Rebuild the carbs, adjust the valves, check compression, flush the coolant and change the oil. At that point we'll press the magic button to see if we have a viable project. Stay tuned.
(Below) More bad news as I find the instrument panel to be loose on its mounts. A quick inspection revealed the cause — all three mounting points have been broken free of the housing. Fortunately, I have a spare housing if we get to that point.
The sequence is familiar: Rebuild the carbs, adjust the valves, check compression, flush the coolant and change the oil. At that point we'll press the magic button to see if we have a viable project. Stay tuned.
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