Motorcycle Repair: shovelhead rebuild, old school style, straight pipes


Question
Mike:
I am in the process of restoring an old school style chopper. The frame is a rigid 1978 Jammer. the motor is a 1980 shovelhead. The motor has been removed and is ready for teardown and inspection. The motor is a kicker and started and ran good all summer. I put about 2000 miles on it last summer. On long rides I noticed a leak under the rocker box on the front cylinder, additionally, I noticed blue smoke from the rear cylinder, coming out of the exhaust. The blue smoke was evident at idle at stop lights as well as when I was throttling up. I am running straight pipes and an S&S carb.
My question is what type of cost can I expect if I bring the entire motor to a machine shop/harley mechanic for teardown/inspection and repair and paint?
Johnny from Boston

Answer
Your problem is worn pistons or valve guides and that is why it is smoking. If you are interested, i would be more than glad to give you a price on your rebuild. I have rebuild shovels from all over the country. i dont paint the motors, i powdercoat them. Lasts alot longer and it very hard. If you would like a price, send me a e-mail at mike@cscycleservice.com
As to the cost, it is very hard for me to say due to the fact that there are different labor prices all over the country. Most dealers will charge a higher labor cost over the small shops. My best advise would be to shop around.
Good luck and happy riding
Mike