Engine removal method?

[80GS1000]

Did a search, didn't see an an answer to this question:

What's the easiest way to remove the engine from the frame?

Would this work?

1. Strip bike down to only frame and engine, remove swingarm and front end.
2. Loosen/remove engine mounting bolts/plates on one side of frame.
3. Tip frame/engine over onto its side onto an old tire or something to protect it from scratches etc while on its side.
4. Remove bolts on the now high side of the frame.
5. Lift frame up, with a bit of fiddling the engine would be out of the frame.

On the other hand, what's the easiest way to get a GS engine back into the frame?

Thanks for any help.

[psyguy]

yup, that would work
you can also leave the wheels/forks/swingarm on and do the same

if you have someone to help, you can support the engine underneath with a hoist (i guess you call it a "jack"?) while the bike is on the central stand - undo all the bolts and the two of you can take the engine out

or, if you want to work on the engine (and not just swap it) you can take the top end off while the engine is in the frame + all the side covers etc, then you can take the bottom end out of the frame yourself

any of these procedures work in reverse, too

[spchips]

Get a friend and lift it out the side while upright. no reason to take the front end and swingarm off.

If it's a nice paint job, use rags everywhere to prevent scratches on the way in and out. If it's a real ugly paint job, you don't even need the friend. Pulling off at the valve covers or the head makes it progressively easier.

However, It can be done even with the engine in one piece.

[80GS1000]

Sorry, should've included more detail. The frame's going to the welder for further bracing and then it's getting powdercoated. So I need to end up with a bare frame. The engine's getting removed as a whole to get rebuilt.

[hampshirehog]

You can get the motor out on your own. Lay loads of blankets down on the floor or do the job on the lawn and lean the whole bike down after undoing the nuts on the engine bolts (frame completely stripped). Pull the bolts out and lift the frame clear. Works in reverse when putting the motor back in as well.

[duaneage]

You must lay the bike on the proper side. My 650 is laid down on the right side. The bottom motor mounts are different on each side. Failure to pay attention will mean more struggles, possible damage, more beer drunk, and more work.

[ScottMc1100L]

Did a search, didn't see an an answer to this question:
What's the easiest way to remove the engine from the frame?

Thanks 80GS1000 for asking the question, and thanks to the rest for the tips, answers! I have no immediate plans but I've wondered how all of you are seemingly R&Ring these motors on your lunch break! I've got a 700 on a small skid, I've moved it around a few times and...it's not light. I don't think I could get it up into a frame without some (ok, a lot of ;-)) assistance.

[willie]

FWIW, R&R-ing the motors on my 1150 and GT750 was a piece of cake when I used the following method. After removing all the mounting bolts, I looped a nylon clothesline rope through the rear most mounts up and around a wooden dowel the diameter of a broom handle and about 3' long. I did the same with a loop of rope around the front mounts and another dowel. Someone on each side of the bike holds each end of the dowel and lifts up. Really a piece of cake to lift it out and place it on a milk crate. Then both guys get around to the same side of the bike and lift. Move it anywhere you like without getting your hands dirty or squished.
Also, to make sure the frame didn't get scratched when pulling or replacing the motor, I placed foam pipe insulation on the frame. That way you could rest the motor on the frame without worry of scratching it.
Willie in TN

[trippivot]

the EASIEST way to get a engine out of the frame is with a cutting torch ---duh---

DO NOT STRIP THE BIKE of swing arm or front end. Don't try laying bike on side!! not helpful believe me
this is a general over view..
remove the fuel tank, seat, side covers, shifter, chain cover,chain, (brake lever maybe)
remove exhaust pipe
remove the carbs
remove all engine mounts plated and bolts.
unplug all wires--(ignition,neutral,shift counter,charging stator,oil pressure, etc...
engine comes out the right side of frame as you were sitting on bike

[80GS1000]

Thanks for the replies guys. The voice of experience is always the best.

OK, it dawned on me the GS1000 service manual might have directions on how to remove the engine, and indeed it does. Here's the service manual description on how to remove a GS1000 engine. Not sure if this method applies to the 16V GS bikes but it should apply to the 8V versions.

[80GS1000]

And...this cutaway engine picture is just cool, so here it is.