Stephen_Chase Posted August 8, 2011 Share Posted August 8, 2011 I just bought a '71 R75/5 in nice original condition with 17k on the clock. It looks good, starts & runs well. As I really don't know the internal condition, I am seeking advice as to what I should do: ride it, or do some basic maintenance including internal exam before riding (eg. spline lube. etc). I have a few bike restorations under my belt, but no BMWs. Also, my other restos needed attention. This one seems pretty good. I look forward to your suggestions. Stephen Link to comment
Paul Mihalka Posted August 12, 2011 Share Posted August 12, 2011 I would replace the carburetor diaphragms. Check the screens of the petcocks inside the gas tank. Replace the fuel lines. The gas tanks can get very rusty inside. Link to comment
StuGotz Posted August 12, 2011 Share Posted August 12, 2011 Sage advise from the old fart. It's very easy to remove the petcocks as well as the tank. Run it low, then get the tank off of the bike, remove the petcocks, tip 'er upside down and get all the gunk that usually lives in the lower folds of the tank. Get yourself a manual. Dump all the fluids. Refill with new. Ride the snot out of it. Welcome airhead, not many of us here. MB> Link to comment
johnlt Posted August 12, 2011 Share Posted August 12, 2011 I'd also replace all the fluids including brake and fork fluids. After cleaned up, I'd run a compression check. It is a good indicator of condition. On a BMW airhead, you must ground the plug wires when doing a compression check or you can blow the coils (ask me how I know). Also must pop the carbs off or lift the slide so it will draw air in. Anything over 100/110 is good with 140 being excellent. Link to comment
Paul Mihalka Posted August 12, 2011 Share Posted August 12, 2011 A R75/5 does not know what brake fluid is Link to comment
Joe S. Posted August 13, 2011 Share Posted August 13, 2011 A R75/5 does not know what brake fluid is I had a '74 R75/6 tha knew what brake fluid was but it definitely didn't know what brakes were. The original anti-lock brakes, unfortunately also anti-stop. Link to comment
Paul Mihalka Posted August 13, 2011 Share Posted August 13, 2011 IMHO a properly adjusted front drum brake on a /5 is a much better brake then the single disk brake with the master cylinder under the tank, of a /6. Link to comment
johnlt Posted August 13, 2011 Share Posted August 13, 2011 A R75/5 does not know what brake fluid is Yep, your right. I guess I was thinking about my /6 which does have the front disc. Link to comment
Huzband Posted August 14, 2011 Share Posted August 14, 2011 In addition to the above sage advice, check the push rod seals below the cylinders. If they look to show dry rot crack, which they probably do, replace them. Link to comment
Stephen_Chase Posted August 18, 2011 Author Share Posted August 18, 2011 Thanks Gang! I appreciate the good advice. Right now, all fluid done (not brakes, lol) + fork fluid and bike is working pretty good. To my pleasant surprise parts are readily available from Max BMW & reasonably priced to boot. Stephen Link to comment
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