The New And Improved Unofficial R65 Forum V2
Technical Discussion => Restoration Progress Logs => Topic started by: DanZ3 on March 18, 2022, 10:33:52 AM
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Thought I’d share my experience as a newbie to BMW airheads. I always wanted one but also wanted a project. I bought a 1984 R65 that was in decent condition but had sat for 20 years pretty much untouched except for a carb rebuild and new battery. Coincidentally its the same year as my BMW 325 that is also black. I’ll provide some pictures and updates/learnings along the way to hopefully help other new owners.
Couple learnings:
Things are always worse when you start investigating.
Gas tanks are always rusty after sitting for long periods of time.
Great color match for frame is Duplicator engine paint, DE1635 Ford semi gloss black.
The matte finish on the rear fender is SEM Landau black
Great match for the matte black headlight surround is SEM trim black paint.
As purchased, in process, current state
Work so far:
Rebuilt front forks
Cleaned gas tank and will be sealing as there is a small seam leak.
Lots of cosmetic work
cleaned/inspected rear drive splines
Front brake overhaul
Rear brake overhaul
Next steps:
Seal tank
Paint wheels and install new tubes/tires
Plus a lot more
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That's looking far too clean and respectable :o
Where is the green-eyed jealous smiley? Oh, hang on, he'll do ---> :Oscar:
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Looking great! Don't make it so purty that yer skeerd to ride it! :bmw_smiley:
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Not too much progress but here some updates.
I cleaned the tank and found it has a pinhole leak. :'( . Im planning on sealing with KBS tank sealer. It claims that it will handle small pinhole leaks. The paint is really pretty good as you can see so I don't want to do anything drastic to the outside.
I painted the front wheel, rear is next. Dupli-color wheel paint in silver with satin clear, Looks good IMO. I didn't sand it smooth as they are somewhat "sandy" in original form. Looks original to me.
Repaired the failed side stand. Bent it back into shape and installed a new bushing and bolt. It drags a little when you return it to the up position but I can live with it. It will likely loosen over time.
Removed the exhaust and was pleased that it came away with little resistance. The PO must have used the right thread lube to prevent seizing. Threads are very good with little corrosion on both heads.
Working on cleaning up the saddle bags. Not sure I'll ever use them but they are here with the bike. Needed a key as one is locked and the PO neglected to tell me that there was no key. Found one on Ebay.
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Hello,
Nice job.
I see you have the dual output grey coil affectionately called the "Crack-O -Matic" because the plastic crack cutting the very thin wire causing misfires when hot or allowing water to enter the coil during rain causing loss of ignition... You may want to save some money to the vastly improved replacement BMW sells....
Do not wait too long with the bike dismantled. These are so fun to ride !
Enjoy it and keet her in nice looking shape and state !
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I might recommend POR-15 Tank Liner. I've used several kinds and the POR-15 has worked the best for me.
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I used the KBS sealer. So far so good. It coated the tank and is currently curing. (96 hrs or something like that). The cleaner that came with the kit did a great job. We'll see.
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Update on the tank. I let the sealer cure and as recommended filled the tank with water to look for any leaks. All sealed up!
I started some reassembly. Best part was adding new BMW badges to a rust free, leak free tank. Nearing the end, I hope.
I really need to paint the rear wheel so I can get it on the ground. This week the weather is much warmer so I may tackle that over the weekend.
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Yeah, it's amazing what a couple new badges will do!
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More reassembly ongoing. Should have it on the wheels this weekend.
Painted the airbox and installed new fuel lines and vacuum lines.
Changed all the fluids as well. Getting close.
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It's now a running bike. Not bad for sitting 20 yrs. Still need to fix a leaking bleed screw in the front caliper. Going to try a new one to see if it seals. Also need a seat (solo) and battery covers. Feel free to respond if you have a set just lying around. They're still available new but Im trying to keep the budget in check.
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Looks fantastic!
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Thanks. I started the bike for the first time in 20 years. Started right up and idled perfectly. Cant ride it until I address the brake leak. Ordered a solo seat from Germany. Likely weeks for that to arrive. I took a video of it running but it's too big to post.
My opinion on the process is that I learned a lot about the bikes. They're pretty simple really. I ran over the budget but will have fun with the bike any way. I would do another and will be better informed to the cost of parts and the hidden issues due to stagnation in storage. Anyway its been fun. I will post some "finished" pictures when I get the seat.
Still need side covers too. :'(
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Yeah, they can be a money-pit! I remember someone saying BMW stood for "Bring My Wallet!"
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Ditto. Fantastic 8)
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Finished. Took a maiden ride to get gas. Still needs inspected so technically not legal. A couple tweaks etc. but overall rides nice. Still need side covers but that can come later.
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Very nice 8)
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Danz3,
Very nice bike ! Two things : The side covers have a tendency to disappear when the rubber grommets age. So you better off attach them using some sort of tie .... Don't ask how I know...
And how come your saddle is not the factory standard one ? Are this bike old Govt forces ?
Enjoy it ! It is a very fine bike and your looks so beautiful !!
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I do need new rubber grommets. I thought of securing them with a separate tie to prevent loss when I do get some. I have the dual seat but wanted the single. I plan on riding on some undeveloped roads and wanted something new and comfortable. The old seat is in good condition but due to age would need new foam and a cover.