I have a lot to update here but it's rather like juggling cats at the moment. So many things are in progress, part completed or being stocked in readiness for the right time it's doing my head in.
Painting of the major components is complete and the bike is up on 2 wheels. BunnysZ came over and assisted with that as, I think I mentioned before, the paint is staying very soft for a long time. Now it's been sitting for a few months its getting there. On the paint front I was troubled by the fact that although it says on the tin that it will be hard within a few days this just isn't the case. I realise it all depends on atmospheric conditions but this Frost paint is a devil. Sure it has a lovely finish and looks very factory once dry I just can't get over the curing time extension over what they claim. Whilst watching an episode of Repair Shop the art conservator stated that oil based paints can take a year to dry. Never mind, I am in no rush
I will start adding some photos this weekend as I need to clear the garage and can get to some proper light.
One thing which never ceases to amaze is the sheer number of fixtures and fittings in any bike. I had previously sent a batch off to Mikey for his attention and having taken my engine to Buzzard once lockdown had eased a bit he needed to send the outer cases off. I called on him with a few more bits. Mikey is invaluable for this as his attention to detail is exemplary. The brake hoses are a case in point.
Buzzard made a start on pulling my engine apart this week and sent a few pictures.
His comment on the internals were that they are among the nicest he has seen. The head has been obviously running well and he foresees no major works required. Nonetheless a full strip out and check of valve and seat wear will be carried out.
The bores though are a different matter. From my purchase of the bike in 2011 it smoked on the right hand side. I had always assumed it was due to the fact that it had been standing for 10-15 years in Madrid with the PO and as a result the valve seals had given up.
As you will see it is the bores in 3 and 4 which suffered from not moving for all that time. This will necessitate a rebore as they are too deep to hone. Non K pistons will be used at his recommendation and are 1mm oversize.
A lesson for all of us that even in the driest of conditions its advisable to keep engines turning over.
Light at the end of the tunnel? Hell no, but having stalled this project for a number of years I am relieved to be thinking about it every day now and even doing the smallest job brings completion ever closer.