Subject: RE: Success! I think...
Author: Greg Bender
Date: Aug 5, 2005, 6:15 AM
Post ID: 1719255791
Hi Keith,
Regarding the cylinders - if you are planning on keeping the bike and
riding it, then I suggest purchasing the cylinder kits now. They last
*forever* and you will be very happy with them (I've not heard of anyone
dissatisfied, anyway). Get 'em, put 'em on, and forget about the money
the first time you ride.
Regarding rebuilt engines/transmissions - as I'm sure you are aware, you
won't be able to pick one up at the local auto parts store (like you
could a small block chevy, etc.). Rebuilt engines and transmissions are
- at least in the Guzzi world - made that way by owner's overhauling
their bikes. Sometimes the owner's do it themselves and sometimes they
have one of the reputable shops do it(like Mark Etheridge or John
Schwartz or Greg Field). I'm not aware of anyone who keeps rebuilt
engines on the shelf. Many of us on this list do a good chunk of the
rebuild work ourselves. Some here are more experienced than others and
it really just depends on how much time you have, how much money you
have, and how interested you are in doing work yourself. And - most
importantly - how much you want to learn.
As for cost, that all depends on how deep you want/need to go. If you
are looking at new cylinders/pistons, that'll run you $600. Need to
replace some valves, add another hundred or so. Go into the bottom end,
it starts to get more expensive. Although I don't know the shape of your
heads, I'd be tempted to replace the cylinders/pistons and see how it
runs before spending money on them. If you are worried about the
condition of the bottom end, now is the time to check it out. It will
take some time to do it, but then you will know for sure.
As for the transmission, these old ones seem to run for a really long
time, even if they don't shift the best doing so. The four speeds have
never been as desireable as the five speeds - so consequently never
bring as much money. The guru of transmissions is John Schwartz out in
Hesperia, CA. If you really just want to bolt one on, call John and see
what he has laying about. Don't be surprised if he tells you he uses
four speeds for "door stops"! He is retired but is still involved and
there is no one better, in my opinion. Don't call him early and don't
call him late :> Need his number? Contact me at this email address:
greg @ thisoldtractor . com
When John Ulrich and I went through my 4 speed, we shimmed it up (a few
bucks in shims) and replaced a bearing or two ($50 or $60?) and the
shift return spring (less than $10). That, in addition to seals,
gaskets, and o-rings was it. It shifts great now and I think it will run
for a really long time yet.
I hope this gives you some idea of possibilities. Best of luck!
Keith K wrote:
Just for sheer curiosity, any idea what a rebuilt engine/tranny combo runs? GUZZI-@aol.com wrote:
New to Guzzis |
Regards,
Greg Bender
1971 Ambassador
2000 Quota
http://www.thisoldtractor.com/gtbender
Florida MGNOC website
http://www.thisoldtractor.com/fl_mgnoc
Minnesota MGNOC website
http://www.thisoldtractor.com/mn_mgnoc