Here's a few tips I've found helpful with my projects...
Handgrips.
When removing old grips it's easiest to simply slit them lengthwise and peel 'em off. But when I want or need to save the old grips, I run a couple of thin blade screwdrivers around the inside circumference, leave them in place, shoot a bit of aerosol electronic cleaner inside and work the grip off by hand.
Here the OEM grips are being removed on Project 15 to make way for a fresh set. These are still in good condition and may find a new home on a future project.
When removing old grips it's easiest to simply slit them lengthwise and peel 'em off. But when I want or need to save the old grips, I run a couple of thin blade screwdrivers around the inside circumference, leave them in place, shoot a bit of aerosol electronic cleaner inside and work the grip off by hand.
Here the OEM grips are being removed on Project 15 to make way for a fresh set. These are still in good condition and may find a new home on a future project.
Sanding Exhaust Pipes.
I end up refurbishing lots of OEM exhaust pipes. The black portion tends to rust and really detracts from the finished project. But with all the bends and crevices the pipes are difficult to sand clear of rust.
I discovered that thin sanding sponges conform to those problem areas much better than sandpaper and the ability to use them wet makes sanding easier and quicker. I use about a 400 grit.
I end up refurbishing lots of OEM exhaust pipes. The black portion tends to rust and really detracts from the finished project. But with all the bends and crevices the pipes are difficult to sand clear of rust.
I discovered that thin sanding sponges conform to those problem areas much better than sandpaper and the ability to use them wet makes sanding easier and quicker. I use about a 400 grit.
Intake Manifold Covers
While the carb rack is off the bike for service, I make a point of cleaning the "V" area under the carbs, which is otherwise not accessible. I use a degreaser and rinse with a low pressure water hose.
To protect the intakes from dirt and water, I cut out some squares of plastic from something like a zip-lock bag and secure in place with some cheap zip ties. I keep a supply of Dollar Store zip ties on hand for stuff like this — I wouldn't trust them for anything requiring a quality zip, but for temporary use they're great to have on hand. And as for the engine block cleaning; after rinsing and drying, I coat the black metal with a light application of WD-40 using a soft toothbrush to apply. It provides a final cleanup and gives a nice sheen to the paint. Here we're looking at an '87 VFR700 F2.
While the carb rack is off the bike for service, I make a point of cleaning the "V" area under the carbs, which is otherwise not accessible. I use a degreaser and rinse with a low pressure water hose.
To protect the intakes from dirt and water, I cut out some squares of plastic from something like a zip-lock bag and secure in place with some cheap zip ties. I keep a supply of Dollar Store zip ties on hand for stuff like this — I wouldn't trust them for anything requiring a quality zip, but for temporary use they're great to have on hand. And as for the engine block cleaning; after rinsing and drying, I coat the black metal with a light application of WD-40 using a soft toothbrush to apply. It provides a final cleanup and gives a nice sheen to the paint. Here we're looking at an '87 VFR700 F2.
Carb Boot Screws (1986-87)
The upper circular screw clamps on number 3 & 4 carbs boots ('86-87) are a pain to get at the way the factory oriented them, which is facing right, requiring them to be tightened from the right side. I find it easier to tighten them from the left side of the bike.
If you have a long-shaft screwdriver in your overloaded screwdriver drawer like I do, simply flip them over and face the screw head to the left. Problem solved.
The upper circular screw clamps on number 3 & 4 carbs boots ('86-87) are a pain to get at the way the factory oriented them, which is facing right, requiring them to be tightened from the right side. I find it easier to tighten them from the left side of the bike.
If you have a long-shaft screwdriver in your overloaded screwdriver drawer like I do, simply flip them over and face the screw head to the left. Problem solved.
No-Scratch Pads
I clean lots of parts. I use these no-scratch kitchen scrub pads on everything and anything. Paint, plastic, metal, whatever. I go through lots of them, so I stock up at the Dollar Store to keep fresh ones on hand.
I clean lots of parts. I use these no-scratch kitchen scrub pads on everything and anything. Paint, plastic, metal, whatever. I go through lots of them, so I stock up at the Dollar Store to keep fresh ones on hand.
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