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Post by southernfried on Jun 17, 2013 15:39:32 GMT -6
Hello, 1st forum post. Discovered this forum looking to see what the tank capacity on my new Kwaka that I got given... for FREE! The year is '85 with only 16k on the clock, I cannot believe my luck. It has been sitting in a garage since 1999 and needs quite a bit of work and I am pretty much a novice when it comes to mechanics, having only dabbled with the few cars I have owned over the yers. I hope to find some new friends on this forum who can give me a few pointers and advice as I restore it to it's full glory. Here's a couple pics for you guys. To Do List:Valve adjustment Carbs Fluid change Replace air filter Replace battery
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Post by wonkothesane on Jun 17, 2013 17:16:00 GMT -6
Welcome. There's a lot of knowledge and helpful folk here. Am I right in thinking you're in the UK (number plate?). There aren't so many of us over here, it seems.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using proboards
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mr340
New Member
Posts: 47
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Post by mr340 on Jun 17, 2013 17:26:08 GMT -6
Good score, it looks just like mine did a few weeks ago (it too was in storage since 1999), a little elbow grease and she will shine once again.
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Post by southernfried on Jun 17, 2013 17:39:47 GMT -6
Many thanks, yes you're right I am a UK resident. I am a bit bewildered on where to start with it. I need to flush the tank as the fuel cap seal has corroded and there are shreds of rubber inside, I also need to replace all fluids before starting it. Currently I'm trying to find a manual for it but with no luck, any idea if there's any .pdf's hidden on the internet, tried looking but to no avail thus far.
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Post by eaglerider on Jun 17, 2013 17:44:47 GMT -6
We do have an on-line manual here that you can read and refer to.....download and install our 454 toolbar, it makes navigation thru our features easy, and the manual is there.
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Post by southernfried on Jun 17, 2013 17:47:46 GMT -6
We do have an on-line manual here that you can read and refer to.....download and install our 454 toolbar, it makes navigation thru our features easy, and the manual is there. Ah great, thanks for the heads up. Where would I find that 454 toolbar? A link would be very much appreciated. Edit:Nevermind, I found it. Not really keen on installing it, looks like it has lots of crap I don't want. Is there any other way to get the manual?I got a copy of the manual in .pdf now, thanks again wonkothesane.
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Post by BenInPA on Jun 17, 2013 18:50:40 GMT -6
Welcome to the forum. That is a great find there. Free is always the price! Like was mentioned, a little elbow grease and you'll have it shinned up. Since the bike has been sitting so long you are probably going to have to clean the carbs. You might be able to get away with running a rich mixture of seafoam thru the carbs in a tank of fuel. Might want to do a valve adjustment on the bike. www.ltd454.proboards.com/thread/4210/downloads-valve-adjustments-fork-replacement There is instructions on the valve adjustment there. Just take your time and you will be fine. It's not that hard but it takes a little time the first try at it. Our bikes need the valves adjusted every 5000-6000 miles. Check your air filters, make sure nothing has taken up residence there! Change out all the fluids. Might also want to replace the battery. If its been sitting that long chances are the battery is shot. Make sure you charge the battery fully before trying to start the bike. Once you've checked everything you should be able to try and fire her up. If you have any questions don't be afraid to ask. If your unsure, ask us before doing it. Easier to correct a mistake before it happens than to fix it after its done. Good luck! Sent from my Droid 4 using Proboards Mobile App. ;D
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Post by southernfried on Jun 17, 2013 18:53:58 GMT -6
Welcome to the forum. That is a great find there. Free is always the price! Like was mentioned, a little elbow grease and you'll have it shinned up. Since the bike has been sitting so long you are probably going to have to clean the carbs. You might be able to get away with running a rich mixture of seafoam thru the carbs in a tank of fuel. Might want to do a valve adjustment on the bike. www.ltd454.proboards.com/thread/4210/downloads-valve-adjustments-fork-replacement There is instructions on the valve adjustment there. Just take your time and you will be fine. It's not that hard but it takes a little time the first try at it. Our bikes need the valves adjusted every 5000-6000 miles. Check your air filters, make sure nothing has taken up residence there! Change out all the fluids. Might also want to replace the battery. If its been sitting that long chances are the battery is shot. Make sure you charge the battery fully before trying to start the bike. Once you've checked everything you should be able to try and fire her up. If you have any questions don't be afraid to ask. If your unsure, ask us before doing it. Easier to correct a mistake before it happens than to fix it after its done. Good luck! Sent from my Droid 4 using Proboards Mobile App. ;D Great stuff, thanks very much So glad I found this forum, going to make things a lot less stressfull on me guys!
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Post by Blaine on Jun 17, 2013 19:26:05 GMT -6
Welcome aboard.Nice find. Free is always good too.
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Post by BenInPA on Jun 17, 2013 19:56:56 GMT -6
Yeah Southern there is a lot of knowledgeable guys on the forum. When I first joined I knew nothing about motorcycles. I have some mechanical knowledge as I've done work on my vehicles, but when it came to motorcycles I was new. Not only to working on them but also to riding them. I joined the forum not long after getting my bike from my brother-in-law for $400. I have an '89 454 with some modifications. Thanks to the guys on the forum I am now comfortable working on most of the bike. There are thing's I have not had to do and hope I don't. The guys on the forum have answered every question I have asked. Not only an answer but the pros and cons of some items I've asked. It's a great play to be if your an owner of one of these great bikes.
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Post by southernfried on Jun 17, 2013 20:17:29 GMT -6
Thanks for all the positive messages guys, I feel truly welcomed.
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lamestlame
Junior Member
So I am recovering from an accident I had on my ninja. More bonding time with my trusty ol 454 ;)
Posts: 220
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Post by lamestlame on Jun 17, 2013 21:29:48 GMT -6
Some evapo-rust remover can take care of the rust. A plus is that it is re-usable. Check the petcock gasket it might have gone bad after sitting for so long. Oil up the cables the throttle,choke,clutch and so on it will save you a world of pain later on.
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Post by southernfried on Jun 18, 2013 11:19:44 GMT -6
The list goes one and on, I have no idea where to start or what to do first!
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Post by BenInPA on Jun 18, 2013 17:19:59 GMT -6
Southern I would say start with the valve adjustment, clean the carbs, fluids changed and air filter replacement. Replace the battery and you should be ready to try and fire her up. I wouldn't head out and ride yet though. Check all the cables and lube/oil them. That's a place to start. If you run into problems or get stuck come and ask us. It is a little mind boggling thinking about all you need to do. Once you get into it you will see it's not all the bad. Yes it does require a little time to do it all but it's all rather easy to do. And remember to ask questions if needed. All of the advice I am now giving to others came from this forum. I was a total motorcycle and 454 newbie when I joined the forum. I was in your position not knowing anything a feeling over-whelmed. Just think about it. A couple years down the road you will be able to give the advice to someone else because you will then know how to do it! Sent from my Droid 4 using Proboards Mobile App. ;D
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Post by southernfried on Jun 18, 2013 17:39:06 GMT -6
Southern I would say start with the valve adjustment, clean the carbs, fluids changed and air filter replacement. Replace the battery and you should be ready to try and fire her up. I wouldn't head out and ride yet though. Check all the cables and lube/oil them. That's a place to start. If you run into problems or get stuck come and ask us. It is a little mind boggling thinking about all you need to do. Once you get into it you will see it's not all the bad. Yes it does require a little time to do it all but it's all rather easy to do. And remember to ask questions if needed. All of the advice I am now giving to others came from this forum. I was a total motorcycle and 454 newbie when I joined the forum. I was in your position not knowing anything a feeling over-whelmed. Just think about it. A couple years down the road you will be able to give the advice to someone else because you will then know how to do it! Sent from my Droid 4 using Proboards Mobile App. ;D Thanks man, I am gonna add this check list to my original post and work through them one at a time. Five steps doesn't seem too daunting and the thought of her roaring into life pleases me greatly. No worries about not riding it yet, I still need to get my full license
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Post by BenInPA on Jun 18, 2013 18:12:03 GMT -6
I didn't mean you have to wait to ride once you get her all ready. I just meant I wouldn't ride her after getting to the point of being able to fire her up. After that point you can check all your cables and mechanical things then you'll be ready to ride! The wait and work will be worth it! Sent from my Droid 4 using Proboards Mobile App. ;D
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Post by southernfried on Jun 18, 2013 18:14:38 GMT -6
Yeah I get you mate, still need to check brakes and all the things you listed, I just hope I can get it done before the weather turns to crap. Last thing I want is for her to be road worthey and then it's winter!
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Post by welshman on Jun 19, 2013 10:49:52 GMT -6
Hi southernfried. As the name suggests i'm in south wales, and also restoring a 454, rebuilding engine at the moment as the last person laid it up without anti-freeze and it went dry leaving sludge in the head cooling pathways. One question though, we dont have sea foam in the uk but have a carb and fuel system cleaner called redex, is it the same thing do you think. Good luck with the restoration.
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Post by southernfried on Jun 19, 2013 11:09:42 GMT -6
Hi southernfried. As the name suggests i'm in south wales, and also restoring a 454, rebuilding engine at the moment as the last person laid it up without anti-freeze and it went dry leaving sludge in the head cooling pathways. One question though, we dont have sea foam in the uk but have a carb and fuel system cleaner called redex, is it the same thing do you think. Good luck with the restoration. I haven't got a clue mate, as I've said in earilier posts I am a complete novice. You're better off asking one of the veteran forum members. Cheers and good luck.
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Post by wonkothesane on Jun 21, 2013 5:24:04 GMT -6
Hi southernfried. As the name suggests i'm in south wales, and also restoring a 454, rebuilding engine at the moment as the last person laid it up without anti-freeze and it went dry leaving sludge in the head cooling pathways. One question though, we dont have sea foam in the uk but have a carb and fuel system cleaner called redex, is it the same thing do you think. Good luck with the restoration. I've wondered the same thing, and a little research suggests that is a fairly straight equivalent. There a couple of different versions of redex (injector and straight "petrol" as well as for diesel engines). There are also others. If you look in any Halfords I imagine there would be a bewildering array of fuel additives, but they'll all be much the same.
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lamestlame
Junior Member
So I am recovering from an accident I had on my ninja. More bonding time with my trusty ol 454 ;)
Posts: 220
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Post by lamestlame on Jul 11, 2013 19:40:09 GMT -6
How is the bike coming along ?
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Post by southernfried on Jul 12, 2013 1:53:49 GMT -6
Unfortunately due to a lack of available funds, not to mention a move from Essex to Berkshire a few weeks back, work is yet to begin. She is safely stored in a garage awaiting me to pour money into it. I'll update as soon as I get something done
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gonzo
Junior Member
For the 1st time ever I don't like the snow
Posts: 215
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Post by gonzo on Jul 13, 2013 11:13:32 GMT -6
Gday Southern have you got a torque wrench? If not get one rated for 150 ft/lb roughly. Our bikes go up to a thread diameter of 20mm which need (according to the book) 165 - 240 ft/lb, but even if you did it up to 150 then took it to a mechanic for the last bit. That's the biggest expense you'll have for a while, oh and a socket set. When you set your valves you have to take the water pipes off the top of the engine. These are held in with phillips head screws (WHY) You will strip them taking them off I bet. Drill the center of them with a real small drill (carefull) this may remove enough sticking to free them. If not get some screw pullers (they have a reverse thread so as they bite they unscrew the bolt, don't twist this puller sideways or it will snap and then your up a bit of a creek as there made of tool steel so there Harder than god to drill) replace these bolts with allen key bolts (hex heads) Torque wrench £30 odd Sockets £20 odd Drill and thread pullers £30 odd Valve gap tester shim £5 if that Various allen head bolts £10 these are real rough prices mate but they'll get you a long way Oh crud. The fork seals.... real easy..... (umm) getting the top C clip out (errr) she'll be right, you'll get it. Use 2 real small flat head screw drivers, one to unseat it then the second to prise it out (carefully mate) There will be much swearing involved with this so play loud music and remove people with sensitive ears. There's good detailed explanations of how to do this on this site. Don't know on the price of new fork bushes and oil seals over in Limey land (-: I'm an Aussi ;-) in America still not used to driving on the wrong side of the road after 4 1/2 years ;-) Bit sad actually But something like £200 will get you a long way mate! If you ever have a question don't hesitate to ask. Good luck mate!
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Post by southernfried on Sept 8, 2013 15:20:50 GMT -6
Thanks for the advice Gonzo, appreciated. Just a quick update, I haven't been able to start this project yet, she is in storage again. I wondered if anyone could advise me on the forks? Someone said to me that pitting means an automatic MOT fail, is this correct and what's the best way to get rid of it?
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mr340
New Member
Posts: 47
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Post by mr340 on Sept 8, 2013 17:34:34 GMT -6
Try spraying the forks with WD-40 and buff them out with fine steel wool to get the pitting down to a minimum, it just might get you past the inspectors.
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Post by zekkfett on Sept 8, 2013 19:01:01 GMT -6
I wondered if anyone could advise me on the forks? Someone said to me that pitting means an automatic MOT fail, is this correct and what's the best way to get rid of it? If you are going to replace the fork seals, you need to knock down as much of the pitting as you can anyway. Because if you try to slide the new oil seals down over the pitting on the forks, the fork seals will IMMEDIATELY start leaking again because they will be shredded on the inside from the pitting, which would be a waste of the money you spent on the seals. Some super fine emery cloth will prob work better than the Fine steel wool, depending on how bad the pitting is.
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Post by southernfried on Sept 10, 2013 5:32:07 GMT -6
Good to know, thanks guys.
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Post by southernfried on Sept 26, 2013 14:55:10 GMT -6
Hi, sorry to double-post/bump the thread but I have a few more questions.
I want to replace the seat for a single springer, looking at the rear fender it will look fugly as heck without the original seat so am looking to get a replacement. Any ideas what would fit nicely, or can I buy any stock rear fender and fit it?
I am also wanting to fit some riser handle bars, other than measuring up before I buy is there anything in particular I should know?
Thanks in advance.
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Post by wonkothesane on Sept 26, 2013 15:24:19 GMT -6
Where are you in Berkshire?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using proboards
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Post by southernfried on Sept 26, 2013 15:40:11 GMT -6
Thatcham mate, on The Moors.
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