QuestionI've just purchased a 1991 Suzuki GS500E. It's the second bike I've owned, and I'd like to try to keep this one in good shape. I know absolutely nothing about engines. I don't even know how to change a spark plug, though I do general contracting and am generally mechanically inclined - just not with engines.
I'm looking for some tips on how to maintain my bike, and perhaps where I could look for an inexpensive source of information on how to maintain and repair bikes. Maybe a good used book on ebay or something - Do you have any suggestions?
Thanks for your help!
AnswerHi Dave, I will give you some advice on what I feel would be the most crucial aspects of maintaning your engine.
1. Frequent oil and filter changes with quality motorcycle specific oil. This is a small engine with an oil bath clutch so it requires frequent oil changes, idealy every thousand miles or so.
2. Quality fuel. Run premium fuel only.
3. Valve adjustments, keep the valves adjusted according to the factory recommendations. Motorcycle valves and seats are relatively soft thus allowing the valves to beat themslelves into the seats, this decreases the clearance between the valve stem and the cam follower. If the clearances are not kept adjusted the valves will eventually be unable to close fully causing them to burn.
4. Winterizing or storage. If the bike is to be sitting for periods of a few months or longer the carbs must be drained of fuel or the fuel will gel and plug up the jets.
Fill the fuel tank full to decrease the chance of moisture and drain the fuel bowls. Keep the battery in the house and trickle charge it once a month or get a battery tender.
5. The air filter should be cleaned religously and oiled.
thats about all I can think of at the moment. Get yourself a Factory service manual and review the recommended maintance procedures. I hope this helps thanks for asking
Randy
