Is it worth resurrecting?

[mihammer]

A '78 XS1100E recently came into my possession (Free!). It is basically complete - did have a vetter fairing but that is gone so no headlight, turn signals, etc. Rusted exhaust near crossover so that is shot. Couple of plugs out with duct tape over holes so I'm assuming seized up - at least from rust if not something else.

I've read through all the tech stuff here enough to know the trouble areas and am pretty fair with a wrench. Should I part it or rebuild it? Is there some quick "acid test" things to check without it being able to fire up to determine if it's worth the effort?

[Dennyz]

Take all the plugs out, put a 1/4 cup of automatic trans fluid in each cylinder and crank it over a bunch of times. Stand back; it is likely to make a mess.

When the ATF quits spraying out of the spark plug holes, do a compression test on each of the cylinders. The ATF will throw the reading off (read high). What you are looking for is how close the four cylinders are to each other.

If the compression is within 20 lbs of each other, you probably have good cylinders. Even a 50lb difference will still run fine. Drain all the old fuel out of the tank and carbs, Put fresh fuel in, throw a splash of fuel in each cylinder, put the plugs back in and try to fire it up. You may need to hook to hook up a battery charger.

It is not uncommon for an XS to come back to life after looking like it was a goner. My father pulled a '79 Special out of a pile of black berries where it had been for 8 years. Changed the fuel, did the ATF thing and fired it up.

If you are looking for a one of the most rewarding wrenching project, bring her back to life.

[MartyA]

one of the most rewarding wrenching project, bring her back to life.

I agree, what a great opportunity!

But if you don't agree mihammer, I'll give you $50 for it. Just tell me where to pick it up...

[sksxs1100]

My 78E came out of Houston also, I did alot of work to it and I ride it EVERY day.. If you decide to sell it and Marty does not want to come to texas after it , let me know... I would love to have another 78E

[fusionking]

I wish I could have got my SF for free. But then it prolly woulda cost me just as much to get where I'm at, Seems like you're gonna put a couple grand in one no matter what. Garry

[rockyr74]

ditto fusionking;
Monetarily, you are probably ahead parting it out. The obligitory tires, battery, brakes and carb parts in a ressurection add up fast.
If you like wrenchin, be sure its a runner before collecting parts and then go for it. If the paint and chrome ain't so bad, you should not be too far in the hole if and when you sell.

[MartyA]

I defer to the closer neighbor.

And I agree if it is a basket case, parting it out might be a good idea. But if you are a wrench, and you have the time and a couple of grand, the result could be quite rewarding.