Big Projects - what have you learned?

[Doggo]

So what are they saying is wrong with it?

My impression - only my impression - is that the mechanic gave it a fairly cursory look, and quoted conservatively for a few things that may or may not be needed (fair enough). The bike was fine when I parked it, then got the oil pipe leak after only 2 weeks, then ended up sitting for I'm not sure how long. I think I started it about 6 months ago but it's been sat maybe over a year now. It's kind of under my building, but a very dark, but cold and windy corner which floods (just puddle, not deep), and the best place I could sit it a couple of drips were hitting near the rear. Big mistake. Yes, I am a bit ashamed

The list I've been given says (My comments in brackets):
1. Brake overhaul both ends, with seals. (The brakes are not stuck on, and seem to work fine, and the discs look fine, but fair enough)
2. Front brake dual linkage overhaul (Presumably for the linked brakes?)
3. New brake lines all round
4. New brake pads all round (The ones in the bike were fairly new, and haven't stuck to the discs, but I was told they might have separated from the backs?)
5. Brake fluid
6. Full service (Had a major including v.clearances maybe 1500 miles ago, but will obviously need most things I guess)
7. Carb strip and balance (I'm guessing the carbs may be gunged with unleaded, but live in hope! I would surely send this out to be done if needed?)
8. New Chain & Sprockets
9. Check swingarm (It was suggested that Hondas rust through. I'm hoping any rust is surface only, but needs checking)
10.Check subframe (Visible rust - again I'm hoping just surface, but I don't know)
11. Exhausts and collector box (Whole back end. Front was replaced a while ago and have been expecting this one)
12. MOT

[Doggo]

I've learned that there is no greater satisfaction than doing things for yourself. Treat it as a casual hobby/learning exercise, even if everything goes wrong, you'll have learned some lessons that you can take forward.

When I was 17 and knew absolutely nothing, I did and engine and box swap on my Audi coupé, it saved me a packet, and whilst I could not get it to run once I had finished, I'd done 95% of the job and £50 to a local mechanic got it going.

As long as you don't set fire to it you can't lose really.........

Thanks, Vtecmec. I kind of feel I do have nothing to lose, really. And I do/did love my bike.

[Doggo]

D.I.Y. I've done almost any job, except major engine builds on my old Honda's and the fj, what's wrong with it? If necessary trawl e-bay for spare parts, and take your time, not forgetting winter is coming, so ideal spanner time. Which model is it, I believe the model designations ran from FH to FN depending on model year.

See above for the damage (maybe).

I think this is the approach maybe. Ebay etc. As you say.

Cheers

It's a very late one. A CBR1000F-X.

[Doggo]

Please don't leave it to rot! As Paul has asked: what's wrong with it?

Can you get it under a shelter, even if there's no room to work on it when there? If so, you could learn as you go (as long as you keep some wheels on it). It won't matter how long it takes. If as you say, you are thinking about buying another bike and not selling yours, why not get something smaller and more economical that'll last a couple of years and spend the savings on bits and/or tools?

As to your original question: things I've learned from past projects include
- don't rush a job
- keep things clean
- if something seems not to be working, walk away rather than get frustrated
- take notes and photos before dismantling
- label everything you remove

Thanks, Sailor. Some good stuff there.

I think I'm going to try and figure out more on what it needs, what it'll cost and what I can do. If it's bad I may consider the temp bike. Appreciate the encouragement. It's starting to sink in.

[Doggo]

Bar needing specific tools most jobs on bikes are 10 x easier than cars. They require 1/4 the space needed and they're usually less essential than a daily driver so you can take your time. What does it need? Fork seals, steering head bearings, swingarm bearings, caliper rebuilds? I've done them all and none are too difficult at all. Fix it!

Interesting! I always tend to think bikes ar harder so have never worked on them... it's the way its all packed in tight, I think.

Forks and seals are all fine, and bearings. Good to hear someone say this stuff is not too bad. Cheers!

[Doggo]

I agree with 'bluejack' anything you can't do doggo, I'm sure we'll be able to talk you through it, main essential is a Haynes manual, and I know a couple of good Honda O.E. parts suppliers who can help with parts. One thing I didn't realise was the model designation of the CBR went from FH to FX, so most parts are (should be) widely available. Oh, and depending on the complexity of repairs needed, start with the easy fixes first, it'll raise your confidence and spirits.

Thanks, mate. Appreciate it. Nice to know you guys may be able to offer some advice... don't really know any bikers at present.

Got a Haynes. I've used Silver spares for consummables before? Easy stuff first then

[becca]

I've learned from my unfinished relatively small project...

- Never set a deadline. You will never meet that deadline.

- Scrapyards are your new best friend.

- The part is not for your car? MAKE it for your car.

- Practice before you do something you've not done before.

- Aesthetics wise, if it doesn't look right, walk away. Come back every day for the next week. If it still doesn't look right, it's not.

- Time is not your friend.

- Money is not your friend.

- If you can't find a part, search the same places every day until it pops up. Call everyone. You WILL find that part eventually.

- But it's always worth it in the end. And if you love something - even if you spend more than it's worth, the learning, the pride in having done it yourself, and the feeling of accomplishment at the end are worth more than the money spent. (Plus it's cheaper than paying some other mug to do it for you)

[Doggo]

Thanks, Becca

Some pearls there. And it made me laugh

[Donald]

I've got some pearls for you.

[Doggo]