please help

[wloren3]

I know this is probably a simple question for the more experienced gs enthusiasts. however being that this is my first suzuki, i need a little help. i have a 1983 gs550L bought used and seems to be riddled with problems. first and formost i replaced the spark plugs with new to help with starting. basically im not sure the previous mechanic put the wires on properly when he had it. bike has never run properly since i have owned it. does anyone happen to know the cylinder numbers or have a diagram to make sure proper wire is on proper cylinder.

[PAULYBOY]

I guess there's no number tags left on the wires themselves? I would imagine all the 4's are the same, maybe Basscliff could give some input. That man must work hard at accomodating the rest of us mere mortals, cuz he da man! Maybe send him a PM.

[Griffin]

Welcome to the site.

Now then, the cylinder numbers go 1,2,3,4 left to right as you're sitting on the seat. The left coil should be attached to the outboard cylinders, the right coil to the inboard ones.

If you are going to own a 25 year old bike, you need to be able to work on it yourself. Changing plugs and expecting that to fix a problem isn't going to get you riding anytime soon.

The first step is to get a Haynes or Clymer shop manual. The second step is to do a complete service on everything in the maintenance chapter of the manual (valves, oil, chain, cables, etc...). The third step is to compile a list of everything you notice that needs attention, then begin searches on this website and in the manual to try to get some kind of idea about what you're facing. You will then be able to ask questions (if necessary) that are specific enough to garner you some help.

[cranemonkey]

Get dirty

Do not let the experience of others affect your interest in the Zen of motorcycle maintenance. Everybody started somewhere, usually right where you are. Read, surf, and have fun with your ZOOK!:-D

[simon kuether]

Welcome to the LOONEY BIN.We all (most)started right where you are now.Fettlin' these old girls is what it's all about.You fix this then that sh#t's itself.If you fix everything PROPERLY as you go ,you'll end up with a reliable,fun classic cycle.Cheers,Simon.\\/

[goodscout]

Not sure if yours has a diaphram fuel petcock or not, but my GS300L would not run good after sitting for a while, but to make a long story short, after cleaning the carbs, new plugs, etc, etc, it took repalcing the petcock to get it right. Runs like new after that. Oh yeah, and like the others say, after the cussing, crying, throwing stuff, crying and cussing some more, it is all worth it when it runs like a sewing machine!

Good Luck