Motorcycle Repair: 1983 VT750C, valve stem seals, frequent oil changes

Question
I have an 83 VT750c that is getting tired. I thought about rebuilding it but can't find new parts to rebuild it.
I guess I have two questions: 1. Do you know where I can get pistons, rings, valves, etc. to do a rebuild? 2. I have a resource to get an 85 VT1100 engine and tranny with 10k on it. Is it posible to fit an 1100 on a 750 frame?

Answer
Tim, the 83 was a one year model before the embargo restrictions, causing the Japanese manufactures to drop the displacement sizes to 700 ccc until 1987. I am not sure if they debored or destroked the engines during that time, otherwise the motors should interchange. There is a possibility that the 98 later VT750 motors may work, but you would want to look them over carefully before you buy. Check with wrecking yards in your area or on the national hot lines. I don't have specifics on these kinds of interchanges. I would guess that the VT1100 motor is NOT a swap. Check with www.westernhillshonda.com for parts or check the web for Honda Shadow enthusiast groups who may have more knowledge about parts sources. Depending on how many miles are on your engine, the overhaul could get VERY expensive. High miles machines will need new camchains, tensioners, rings, valve stem seals, gaskets and seals. Sometimes the rings are just worn and need replacing w/o a rebore. You won't know until you open it up for inspection. Frequent oil changes will reduce wear, but lack of maintenance will yield a lot of worn parts that are very expensive. Finding a good used, low miles motor is probably the best bet.

Bill Silver