Carlsbad, New Mexico

[digitalsam]

I am getting ready to tear apart my 1980 Special. If there anyone in the Carlsbad area that is interested in watching and advising a noob?

[newc4]

Sam,

If you could be a little more specific we can offer advise from afar. Most everything to be done with these bikes have been documented in the threads.

Unfortunately, while I visited Carlsbad once, I'm way over here in Northen VA.

Darrell

[digitalsam]

Specifics?

Specifics? As in I am rather specifically a big fat chicken. I bought an older bike in order learn how to work on it. I didn't want to be one of the guys you see on the $30K Harley who can't find his way around his own bike. (Nothing against Harley's)

I started out courageous and bought a new set of shift forks and a complete gasket set on ebay. Now, as I stand in front of my bike, I am worried that I will brake it. I have a mechanics manual and will be on this site often once I turn the first bolt.

I appreciate the offer of online help and I will take you up on it as I run into issues. I was kind of hoping to find a local who I could call on for hands on assistance.

[fredintoon]

Going all the way or what, Baby?

Hi Sam,
we all have our failings and there's far worse things to be than a big fat chicken.
But no matter, SPECIFICALLY what do you want to do with your bike?
Just get it running?
Modify it to suit a styling whim?
Tear it down to the last part and fastener?
Or what?
We got to know before we can start the advice flowing or the derision started.
BTW, the moment the snow starts to fly I am willing to kibitz your efforts in exchange for return airfare, 3 meals a day and a place to sleep.

[oseaghdha]

I used to live in Hobbs, but I changed.

Apparently, you are contemplating some trans work?
1. Read everything 3 times.
2. Ask questions.
3 Take your time.
4. Understand what you are going to do first.
5. Adopt Fred for the winter.

Well, #5 is optional.

[tarzan]

The beauty of this site is that with a digital camera you can take real defining photos and people can pretty much see exactly what you have and what you need to do.Also there are a ton of complete repair and modification threads here with pics.And you can ask anytime for help.
So roll your sleeves up take your time and take some pics as you disassemble (for later reference) and it will get easier each time you accomplish a task.Whats the worse that can happen,you might have to redo something a few times.But you will know how to fix it next time and the sense of satisfaction,at least for me ,is great.