Subject: RE: (MGCL) Buying an Eldorado
Author: Scheer, Peter L
Date: Jun 8, 2001, 6:02 AM
Post ID: 1707038966
Chris,
I am pretty new to loopframes but from what I have learned from this list
and personal experience is to look for a bike with all the correct
sheetmetal, ie fenders and side covers and toolboxes. The side covers and
tool boxes seem to be the most problematic to find. A gas tank with the
chrome panels in good condition is a definite plus.
Mechanically, it seems it is a pretty stout design and repair parts are
available. If it runs without smoking and shifts OK you have a good
starting point. The weak area of the motor is the chrome cylinder
coating. If it flakes off you need to re do the cylinders. The weak
point being if the motor sat for a long time without getting lubrication
onto the chrome. I have heard reports of these motors going up to 80,000
miles before engine rebuilding time.
I think if you really like the bike style, go for it. Try to get one as
original as possible. If the sheet metal is there. It can be painted,
rechromed etc. The mechanical stuff can be overhauled too. It all comes
down to time and money.
You can easily find one for $ 5-6 K and up that will be mechanically sound
and looking good too. The trick is to find one at half that cost.
I found one last year in NC. It ran, shifted, but looked very dull. Took
a chance and bought it. It was the first loop I saw up close. I saw a
picture a few months before and knew that was it. Took a trailer down
from PA, so I was already committed unless I saw something grossly out of
line.
I've been very happy so far. Most of the problems seem to be from age,
old corroded terminals, dried grease , dirty carbs, dried seals, etc. The
design seems solid. There is a wealth of info on this loop list. There
are guys here with the equivalent of a Ph.D. in Loop-ology. Others of us
are all learning and sharing info and asking for help.
Look on Ebay, Walnecks magazine, Cycle Trader on line, MGNOC
classifieds.
Good luck on your search.
Take the plunge !!
Pete in PA
71 Ambassador
| -----Original Message----- From: Chris.-@ni.com [SMTP:Chris.-@ni.com] Sent: Thursday, June 07, 2001 4:36 PM To: MG-@topica.com Subject: (MGCL) Buying an Eldorado Hey Everyone, I am thinking about buying a Eldorado as my next project, and due to a lack of knowledge about Guzzi's, I have some questions. When I go out to look at these bikes, what are some areas that I need to pay close attention to? I know the basics to look at, but are there specifics to this model that need a closer look? I guess I am looking for a little check list to go over when shopping. Oh, and if anyone has a Eldo forsale, let me know. I want a good runner that need cosmetic freshening :) Thanks Chris Sherry |