Help bring my 1980 GS550L back to life

[Guest]

I just bought a 1980 550L for $300 that has been in storage since 1999. Cosmetically, the bike is excellent. Mechanically, that's to be determined. My first goal is to clean up the fuel system. Good sign was the throttle and choke appear to be operating smoothly. I pulled the carbs off and found rust and thick varnish in the bottom of all 4 bowls. I drained about 1/2 gallon of fuel from the tank that was rust colored and smelled awful. I'll be doing a complete rebuild of the carbs, replacing all rubber hoses, and removing rust from inside the tank using electrolosis. Following the fuel system, I plan on flushing out the brake system as the current fluid looks like mud. New tires will be installed. Engine will get new plugs, air filter, and oil and filter. New battery will be installed. What else would you do to a bike that's been sitting for 16 years? Bike has 11k miles.

[steveb922]

Hi Jeep, and welcome.

I would do all the things you mention, plus go to http://members.dslextreme.com/users/bikecliff/ for a manual and more info. http://www.cycleorings.com/ have all the parts you'll need for a carb rebuild, plus the O-rings that go between the head and the intake.

[tom203]

Put your location and bike/model/year in your signature- might be a member nearby to speed up your learning curve! Make sure you do a valve check/adjustment - figure it's been awhile. Note that carbs don't need "rebuild kits": they just need to be throughly cleaned