Gathering winter provisions, need insight

[Sojourner]

Hi all. Bought a '79 XS11 Special that, while it starts/runs, has been sitting for quite a while and I want to do things right and focus on getting her ready for Spring 2011.

Here's the list thus far:
Rebuild both master cylinders
Rebuild all three brake calipers
Replace all three brake lines with coated steel lines
Bleed lines and replace brake pads
Replace both tires
New filter and engine oil
Replace all gear oils
Rebuild the carbs
Replace the carb boots
Replace the throttle cable

Anything else you'd add since I'm basically throwing money at the bike to while away the months till the Vernal Equinox (aka Spring ). Fork seals and oil? Wheel bearings? Mind you I'm not made of money...

So is there a particular order you would go about doing all of this? Obviously the brake stuff has a particular order to it, but I mean it more from a "most important to least important" order. Also, are rebuild kits all the same? Or are there some crap kits to avoid buying? Any input or recommendations for tires? What's a good manufacturer to get the steel brake lines from? Any particular online parts warehouse to look into? Maybe some part numbers if you've replaced or rebuilt anything similar within the last year? Sorry for all the questions but in the past I've always bought, rode, and sold bikes faster than the DMV could spit out the title work. This bike though... this one is different. For some reason I see myself holding onto this one for quite a few years.

Like I said- I'm going to do this one up right. By buying at the end of the riding season I have managed to quell the "must get bike on road now!" devil on my shoulder. Any opinions or experience you can offer would be most welcome.

Thanks!

[CatatonicBug]

If you haven't done it already, I'd replace the battery (they only last 3-4 years anyway) and the fuse box. Those nasty glass fuses are a trouble spot.

[crazy steve]

Looks like a good list... but I would figure on thoroughly checking/cleaning/replacing if needed any and all electrical connections while you're at it. These are known trouble points on bikes that have sat.

Two comments; one, don't be quick to throw away your carb boots because of cracking. That's very common, and it's not all that often they're cracked all the way through. You can 'dip' yours in tool handle goo (PlastiGrip, etc) and restore them to use; that'll save you about $100..

Two, 'covered' stainless brake lines... There's several vendors for XS-specific SS lines, but I'm not aware that they sell the coated ones. Their prices are pretty reasonable though. If you want covered (that would be my choice), you can 'assemble' lines through Goodridge, Russell, maybe some others by using the lines with AN3 fittings on them then getting the correct ends separately. A bit more money, but more choices in finish too.

[DiverRay]

All I can think to add would be new fork seals and oil, and repack the steering stem bearings.

[Sojourner]

So are there any shops or brands to avoid? Like some of the chrome bits J.C Whitney sells. I just don't want to shell out the money for sub-par rebuild kits, etc.

The other thing is tires. Anyone have some positive reviews of a particular brand or model?

Oh, and the battery is dead as a doornail. So that's one that needs to be addressed that I forgot to add to the list.

[DGXSER]

One source I have used consitantly and consistantly gotten great parts and service is Georgefix on evilbay. He apparently now has his own site to sell the kits.

One other item you could consider, int he world of modifications though, is the XS750/850 final drive swap.

Wheel bearings, for the front are pretty available and not to much money. The one side bearign for the rear wheel is becoming unobtainable though, and when it is it runs $50-$60 for the one bearing.

[mack]

teardown detail

Depending on how much tear down your planning on. If your going to pull the motor you may want to have a good look at the valve train. Inspect the cups and check your shim clearances, valve guide seal replacement, check cam chain. Also could be a good time to replace the swing arm bearings, since your rear wheel will be off anyway.Maybe clutch springs and friction plates.

[Lamric]

Hi Sojourner,

Check out the New Owners - List of jobs before running and riding

[Sojourner]

Brilliant!

Lamric that link was spot on! Thanks for pointing that out.

[Lamric]

All part of the service

[natemoen]

That's a way better list than anything available here on .com. there should ne a permanent link of that posted here too.