Anyone around Flint Michigan would like to help a mechanical noob

[LAN_MAN]

I have some work to do on my XS1100LG and do not feel confident to do the work by my self.
I would like to learn, I can do some simple stuff (Oil filter adapter, tire changes, oil changes,)

Here what is needed
1. Replace Fork seals (One is leaking)
2. Dermal fix on the transmission for Gear 2&3
3. Carb Work (valves/carb sync/etc)


The fork seals I need right away. (I am think of taking the bike to Majic in Waterford for the work)

The Transmission can wait, but I will like this done something this year

The carb seem fine, I am getting between 40 to 42 MPG, but I do not know if anything has ever been done with them

I live in Fenton MI, No garage, Part of my problems with doing work

[CatatonicBug]

If you want, we are having a rally in central Illinois on May 14-16 to do the Dremel fix on another bike. We (meaning you) could do yours at the same time! If you don't want to go that far, it's a 5 to 6-hour job for a newbie with some mechanical know-how and the proper tools. No real garage needed. I have a carport, where I have done it several times (just finished one last night).

As for the carbs, if you're getting that kind of mpg, I'd just leave 'em right where they are! Unless you are having issues with them, it sounds like you're doing quite good!

[ross]

hey there neighbor...

hey there lan man.....i'm just 45 minutes down i-75...check out my signature to find out where i'm at....have done most of my own work and DO have a garage...and tools....and beer.....i agree with catatonicbug....if u r getting that good of mpg......do not mess with perfection.....maybe shut off the gas and pull the drains on the float bowls just to see if any dirt comes out.....i wish i could get that mpg....but i have done the carbs, clutch plates and springs, brakes, cam chain tensioner.....i don't think that fork seals would be that much of a problem......other than getting the parts....that along with all the forum members here and it should be pretty easy fix....let me know if u r interested and will try to solve the forkin' problem and get you riding.....as far as the dremel fix...have not had a problem with mine yet (37k miles) and hope i don't....but if i do, i know i could find all the answers here just by asking....talk 2 ya later.....ride hard, ride safe....ross

[MaximPhil]

Forkin Problem

Hi LanMan,
The fork job does not look too difficult..... I have seen it done
I suggest you inspect your steering head bearings and atleast regrease while you have all that stuff off. Order the parts (see LINKS for vendors)
Good luck.
Phil

[tinman905]

Hi LanMan,
The fork job does not look too difficult..... I have seen it done
I suggest you inspect your steering head bearings and atleast regrease while you have all that stuff off. Order the parts (see LINKS for vendors)
Good luck.
Phil

Phil you were on a beer run when I did your forks seals .

[DGXSER]

Hey LanMan welcome to CH 11.

I've not done the fork seals myself, but I have taken a bike down to the frame with the engine and wiring harness on it. And put it back together and it runs and rides. with the help available on this site and having another XSive close by like Ross, if you have mechanical aptitude and are willing to dig in, you can do anything needed to one of these bikes. If you get stuck, don't get stupid and do something wrong, just come on here and ask a question. Someone will usually be here that can answer the question in less than an hour. Sometimes in minutes.

[MaximPhil]

Phil you were on a beer run when I did your forks seals .

Thanks Tinman
Are we going to let the truth get in the way of a good story ???
I recall catching oil in a tub to do it again and having to re-measure.

What the hell do I know I am just the Beer Monkey
Phil

[tadtl1]

midland with gauges and lift

Hi Lanman,

I am near midland/auburn, I have synch gauges and custom fuel carrier for working on the bikes. I would suggest though, that another poster is correct that if it runs that good and idles smooth, there isnt much need to concern about the synch. I havnt done the fork seals or trans fix, but another experienced guy here has, and is gonna invite me over to help/observe when he does his next one with trans problems. That will be fun, maybe I can scab you an invite too.