Project Bike

Good day all, looking for a little advice.
For the last couple of years I’ve been searching for a project bike, something I can take my time with and make it unique. This past fall I was fortunate enough to acquire a 17 R3T. I’ve decided to make my 14 R3R my project. I’m mechanically inclined but I’m not a mechanic. My biggest concern is not running the bike while I start the process. What do I need to know about having an engine sit for long periods of time. I understand that a lot of people have collectable cars...bikes...etc... what precautions do I need to take to take care of an engine while it sits?

I’ve changed every fluid on the machine over the last month, used sea foam in the fuel. These are the things I do every year to prep the Roadster for winter but this time it will be a much longer period.

Like a lot of folks here, I’ve set my Roadster up for touring.... now I want to make it a solo ride with some flair...not that the Rocket doesn’t already have a great presence. I’ve been inspired by this forum when folks post pic’s of the things they have done with their rides over the years so I’m quite excited.

Thanks

OMG he has Rocket Fever lord help him. Let us pray the power gods deliver.

I would drain the tank, change the oil and filters, then run it just long enough to run the fuel out in the engine. That is if you aren't doing engine modifications. Get the weight off the tires and suspension if possible.
Keep it stored in the dry and it should be good.
I'm not a professional, but that's what I would do. Good luck...

if the engine is going to be sitting and not being worked on, the advice above is great, but also pull the spark plugs, and spray in some fog to keep the cylinders from corroding, if you have access to ACF50 (I think that is what it is called, i read somewhere that you can spray that in the cylinders, and it will act the same way as a fogger, might even be better, that is how we setup the snow machines for storage

all fluids have been changed...and I mean everything. The fuel is what I was worried about...evaporating and leaving that gummy residue. No engine mods to be done...it’s all paint and chrome work.
Anybody have experience with the sea foam fogger? From what I have read that is a good product for protecting the cylinders and injectors.

Bike will be stored in a heated garage the whole time. At my place bikes are in....cars are out...lol.

Dawg68 said:

all fluids have been changed...and I mean everything. The fuel is what I was worried about...evaporating and leaving that gummy residue. No engine mods to be done...it’s all paint and chrome work.
Anybody have experience with the sea foam fogger? From what I have read that is a good product for protecting the cylinders and injectors.

Bike will be stored in a heated garage the whole time. At my place bikes are in....cars are out...lol.

Click to expand...

someone I know has used that for a few years, they did an engine tear down and cylinders looked great so I guess it works.

keeping the bike in a heated garage also helps, a lot, I keep all the bikes in the heated garage as well, car stays outside, could care less what happens to it

Either add a fuel preservative or drain/siphon your gas, pull the battery and/or keep it on a trickle charge tender and triple the frequency of your Yoga or TM practices!

Depending on how long your project bike will be layed up, WD-40 is an extremely effective and inexpensive protector against moisture and the corrosion it can cause.

Oh yeah, be sure to have some fun, too, Dawg!

Thank you sir...
I’m pretty excited about the project, looking at different paint schemes etc...I’ve seen other roadsters transformed into solo riders and I think they look awesome. I like most had mine decked out for touring so I’ll be selling off a lot of the accessories I have accumulated since purchase.
As for fun...you bet ya boss..I have a 8k trip through the states booked and planned for July and August this year. The R3T will take me on the hat journey.

If I’m lucky...buy that I mean if the money gods are kind to me I would like to have everything completed within a year or so.

I'm sure that I'm among many here that can offer you cold beer, hot coffee, clean sheets, good eats and some real nice riding during your travels, Dawg.

Keep me and the greater NY Metro area in mind for a layover or stop when you format your itinerary! I'm 50 miles outside of The Big Apple and this here is a nice slice of God's country.