Engine Is Beyond Fixing...

[scottmc]

found this one a couple of hours away from you.


http://seattle.craigslist.org/kit/mcy/2584245082.html

Hmmm this is very cool. Sent him as message hoping for more info.

I would also have to get a new passport, just realized mind has expired.

[tatu]

I think Flyboy is right that you are likely looking at a set of valves gaskets and busted bits (rocker arm,ect) not too expensive, but more importantly is why have the pistons clattered the valves?
Has the head been skimmed?
Are the big ends in good order?
Best get to the bottom of why it happened in the first place.
It must've made a hell of a racket.

[scottmc]

I think Flyboy is right that you are likely looking at a set of valves gaskets and busted bits (rocker arm,ect) not too expensive, but more importantly is why have the pistons clattered the valves?
Has the head been skimmed?
Are the big ends in good order?
Best get to the bottom of why it happened in the first place.
It must've made a hell of a racket.

Looks like it was caused by either a failed tensioner, or cam chain guide.

[spyug]

I take it you're a UBC student so I'm guessing a)money is a concern b)time is a concern as you need the ride working for transport? If so and in consideration of your lack of wrenching knowledge, at this point, the used engine transplant might be the better approach for you.

Getting and replacing the parts might be cheaper but there may be time and delay involved in sourcing them. You may find additional damage as you tear into it so the bill could keep climbing too.

As mentioned, an engine swap is easy enough and could be done quickly. You'll have the bike back on the road and a spare engine to work on at your leisure and when funds permit.

Good luck and keep us informed.

Cheers,
spyug

[SVSooke]

found this one a couple of hours away from you.


http://seattle.craigslist.org/kit/mcy/2584245082.html

This is the older GS400 motor.Will not go in without some work.Actually this is what I'm looking for(just not very hard at this point).

[1_v8_merc]

I'd just drop in another motor....way faster.
Then slowly rebuild the original motor....

Seriously, dropping in a new motor is a piece of cake.
Its not like your dealing with a modern car(where there is a million wires)

This is 70's and 80's design...Couple bolts here and there....straight forward!

[scottmc]

Alright, I believe I will go with the majority opinion.

I will attempt to purchase a new motor, and will attempt repairs on the old one at some future time.

[scottmc]

Hi scottmc.

You can look for part bikes or engines.

If you are patient you WILL find one or two.

I just checked Kijiji ( I am in Quebec ) and found this.

http://qc.kijiji.ca/c-autos-et-vehicules-motocyclettes-pieces-et-accessoires-motos-Suzuki-Gs-400-MOTEUR-SEULEMENT-W0QQAdIdZ291057629

Loosely translated it says "1980 GS400 engine only, perfect shape".
I know it's far. But I just want to show they are available.

I could take a ride and go check that one out if you want to have it shipped.

DP

I believe this is the motor for me!

Does anyone know the approximate weight of one of these motors? I need to calculate shipping cost by rail.

[scottmc]

haven't been able to find any reasonably affordable shipping options. The prices I have been quoted for truck shipments (fedex/ups) are between 400-450 dollars. As soon as your package is over 100 pounds rates skyrocket.

Furthermore I have not been able to get any real answer for shipments by train. All the documentation I can find seems to suggest that the courier service most rail companies offer is for small packages and letters only.

Unless I uncover another option for shipping, I really don't think I can go ahead with this.

What do you think?