Just got my first bike and I have a question

[chrizjen]

Okay I have one more question that I can't find the answer to in tech tips.

Can anyone give me a list of what tools I would need to do these repairs..... I want to buy them now if I don't already have them but I am limited on funds... THanks again!

[egsols]

For the carbs you'll need a good set of screw drivers.....a small assortment of philips to make sure they fit the screws so you don't screw up the heads (pardon the pun).

You will also need some standard screw drivers to get the jets out. You'll want to make sure the fit the jets snug or you'll wreck the jets. They will take a few sizes.

Pair of side cutters to pull out the float pins.

I believe the drain bolt on the carbs is a 10mm as well as the float seats.

If your bike has a tool kit, a lot of the tools are there already.

Seat bolts are 14mm, again should be one in the tool kit.

Last but not least, a bottle opener, lighter and chair.

[chrisso]

you need to clean gas tank-i guess you mean inside...rusty??
Best thing is ''Kreem'' or Kreen . made in the US,this stuff is brilliant...a little fiddly & you must follow the directions but works great. Have fun

[79XS11F]

Welcome to the board. Sounds like the lads are giving you the info you need. Remember .. the only stupid question .. is the one you don't ask. All I can add is that you should upon acquiring any used motorcycle change ALL of the fluids including brake fluid. That way you know what you got and can plan your fluid maintenance program.
If you don't have a manual .. get one and complete or confirm all the required maintenance listed in the manual up to the mileage / age of the bike.
Rob

[Espiritus]

Kreem

Hey. I think I sent you a PM on rusted tanks since I just went through that particular maelstrom. But, for this forum, I thought I would jot a note regarding the Kreem that someone has advised. On one of the "other" (yes, I admit it - I am unfaithful to this forum) forums, it might have been the 650XS one that Mike runs, there is a long thread on the negative aspects of Kreem, ie, that it strings and gums up if not done perfectly. There is a better thread here that speaks to how to have the tank cleaned by the radiator folks ($150 at one of the major radiator places locally) and how NOT to do it (with a bike chain). Please read all the threads before you decide which one to do as Kreem is hard to remove once done. I am sure someone has better info and can direct you better.

Take care!

[SteveK]

I have to agree. There are some repairs that you either just don't have the time or the knowledge on how to perform and would just as soon let someone else do it.

While I salute everyone here that does perform every bit of their own work, alot of it can be considered once in a lifetime jobs and maybe a little bit "touchy". And there can be alot of time involved...

At least in my case, Time that is better be spent on the bike.



Wish you well

[oseaghdha]

Screwdriver

Go to Home Despot and get one of those orange screwdrivers that has the ends that swap out. It will have 4 bits included. The small straight one is perfect for the idle jets.
A long Phillips for the carb clamps makes it less of a PITA.
A long straight one for the idle and sync.

The best screwdriver starts with good vodka.