Manky Monkey Motors

Technical Section => Trike Tech => Topic started by: minimutly on December 24, 2013, 04:43:47 PM



Title: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on December 24, 2013, 04:43:47 PM
Hi to all, been lurking on here for a week or so. I have just this week got myself a kawasaki 750 hard tail trike. It's an '83 vintage bike, class 3, 1st regd in '97.
The back end is a reliant axle, not sure what ratio, but I intend to do some rolling calcs to find out what ratio. The thing has a couple of issues. It wants to wobble (but if you're firm with the bars you can stop it), and has a rather hideous rear bench seat.
What I'd like to do is fit an irs back end (looking for a sierra diff), and possibly a new front end - I originally thought a girder, but am now leaning towards a leading link springer). I'll make a back end before chopping anything off the trike, once that's done tackle the front end.
What I'm wondering is what ratio diff I need? Ford have such a range it's daunting!
Anyone know where to start?
My thoughts while typing this is to find out what's currently fitted, decide if that's too high or low, and go from there?
Compliments to all on the standard of machinery on this forum, it' s been interesting reading.
Happy Christmas to all,
Huw
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: BikerGran on December 24, 2013, 05:11:25 PM
Hi Huw Huw

Is it a GT750 front end?  My GT550 wagged its head till I got some rather super duper extended yokes which reduced the trail and made all the difference I could wish for!  Also got rid of the 'rear wheel steering' effect when going over bumps.

I'm sure someone will be along to talk about ratios, even if it is Christmas eve, cos I know nothing!  Mine has a Reliant axle.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: scannerzer on December 24, 2013, 08:20:56 PM
Hi and welcome,know nothing about ratio's but it's good to get you on here


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Olds on December 24, 2013, 09:45:23 PM
Welcome to Manky Madness.
Working out the ratio is quite simple. Just count the prop revolutions as you push the trike forwards in a straight line for a number of wheel revolutions. Then divide the prop revs by the wheel revs. Easier with two people.



Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: steven brock on December 24, 2013, 10:12:01 PM
How about a picture :)


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: terry t on December 24, 2013, 10:22:47 PM
Hi have you checked the head bearing might need tightening up a bit.
as for the axle, reliant A 3.23 or B 2.79 are about right.  what wheel size you running on.
as already said post some photos


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: fifer on December 24, 2013, 10:51:57 PM
Hi and welcome  :)
Perhaps the following Reliant info From my site might help .
...................................................................
AXLE RATIOS ;

AXLE ; STANDARD RATIO { 850cc } ; ..... 3.23
{ The Crown wheel has 42 teeth and the Pinion has 13 teeth}
...........................................................
AXLE ; HIGH RATIO { 850cc } ; .... 2.78
...........................................................
AXLE ; STANDARD RATIO { 750cc } ; .. 3.545
{ The Crown wheel has 39 teeth and the Pinion has 11 teeth }
...........................................................
AXLE ; FOX RATIO; .... 4.11
...........................................................
AXLE ; REGAL SPLIT CASE TYPE ; .... 4.354
...........................................................
STAMP MARK ;
A = 3.23 { The Crown wheel has 42 teeth and the Pinion has 13 teeth }
X = 3.23 { The Crown wheel has 42 teeth and the Pinion has 13 teeth }
No letter = 3.23 { The Crown wheel has 42 teeth and the Pinion has 13 teeth }
B = 2.78
L = 3.545 { The Crown wheel has 39 teeth and the Pinion has 11 teeth }
F = 4.11


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: digger06 on December 25, 2013, 11:40:52 AM
imo, if you change to a reliant axle, the 2 main ratio,s arnt that far different,
its the wheel size that alters things

and short wheelbases tend to wobble, the front tyre shape makes a lot of difference to that


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Olds on December 25, 2013, 12:59:22 PM
A point to consider is that if you change the frame to add rear suspension,  legally it should be put through MSVA.
Would this trike be HEX ? (think the description fits).


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: digger06 on December 26, 2013, 08:02:31 AM
if itsdown as a trike already, who would know?or care?


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Olds on December 26, 2013, 09:51:10 AM
or care?
DVLA. Insurance companies. Me if you crash into me or mine and the insurance company bails out.
If it's been a trike since 97, there will be quite a few pics of it out there. DVLA themselves may have a description and pictures of it (I know they have of mine). All insurance companies ask for a description and some ask for pictures. I know that it's unlikely, but in the event of an accident with a large claim, any insurance company involved, may investigate the vehicle history and yes that can even involve, trawling through Google images etc.
Sorry, but as far as I'm concerned (others may disagree), keep it legal. It's not difficult.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: terry t on December 26, 2013, 09:55:41 AM
A point to consider is that if you change the frame to add rear suspension,  legally it should be put through MSVA.
Would this trike be HEX ? (think the description fits).

The only difference,  HEX is already a soft tail, but like you say Dave it fits the description


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on December 26, 2013, 10:55:39 AM
Thanks for all your replies, some especially useful stuff, especially the reliant ratio info. ( not sure who it was said they were pretty much the same -obviously not).
And yes it would seem to be the "hex" alluded to,  on ebay 3 weeks or so ago.
For the record it's currently a hard tail reliant, with a sprung rear seat -hence the confusion I guess.
On the msva thing I'm not too bothered either way, other than to stick two fingers up at the dvla who are a bunch of clueless morons. Why pander to their whims, they know it' s a trike, as long as the insurance co have a valid description on record what does it matter?
I'll see about getting some pics up - I guess Ineed photobucket or something?
Also, where do I find the stamp on the reliant axle?
Regards,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: terry t on December 26, 2013, 11:39:12 AM
the number or letter if it is stamped on the axle will be here on the oval part on the diff casing looking on the right by the axle stand.  your diff will be the other way round

(http://i44.tinypic.com/bhj39u.jpg)

as regards dvla they know when the mods were done and probably got photos on record so insurance and the police can find out if its been altered
from original trike conversion registration.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on December 26, 2013, 11:59:33 AM
Are you kidding?do the dvla "know" anything?
If they do have records that means they have to divulge them if I ask? Think I might try that....
I fully agree on legallity issues though, but having said that,  if they have little or no info currently, what changes?
I know  if I start on the process of declaring stuff to dvla it will cost me time and money.
How do the trike design machines get around this - most oof the ones I've seen are not on q plates?
Thanks,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: terry t on December 26, 2013, 12:25:47 PM
No I am not.. when I built mine to change the taxation class to trike and keep the original reg, I  had to take photos of the work done fill out some forms stating what was done. they gave me an appointment for there inspector to have a look and check what I had said was correct, and no alteration where made to the frame and that the engine and frame numbers matched there record. then after there inspection it was changed over to class 3, 2 seat. trike.

but it looks like you have made your mind up on what way you want to go, so I will not post any more comments on this best of luck with you alterations there is a lot of info on here


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Olds on December 26, 2013, 04:05:18 PM
DVLA themselves took pictures of my trike. Those along with the MSVA certificate and report, copies of receipts for major components and various forms, will be stored somewhere.
There are a lot of dubiously registered trikes. 
It is however your trike and folk here will try to help you where they can.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: tbone on December 26, 2013, 05:01:24 PM
For the record it's currently a hard tail reliant, with a sprung rear seat -hence the confusion I guess.
On the msva thing I'm not too bothered either way, other than to stick two fingers up at the dvla who are a bunch of clueless morons. Why pander to their whims, they know it' s a trike, as long as the insurance co have a valid description on record what does it matter?

Regards,
Huw

The best way to raise your digits is to follow all relevant legislation and prove that no matter how difficult they try and make it, a decent trike can still be fabricated within the law.
As regards insurance, it doesnt matter what description you give them, if it doesnt match the dvla records of the vehicle, your insurance is invalid. Not only will this cause problems in the event of a claim, but will also affect any policies that you apply for in the future.
And just to rub a bit of salt in, you could also find yourself being proscuted on fraud charges.
You will recieve more help from the members of this forum than anywhere else on the internet, providing you want it, but as responsible members, we encourage you to build legally.
I realise you may not be getting the answers that you wish to hear, but few here will applaud you for breaking the law and ultimately making life harded for future builders.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on December 26, 2013, 05:50:05 PM
Please don't take my earlier comments as an indication of how I"ll go with this, certainly I' m more inclined to do this properly now than I was before.
As to the history of my trike it would seem some of you know it better than me,  so if anyone wants to post or pm me with info I'd be greatful. My own initial inspections have revealed several areas of dubious welding, so it's Iikely there will be some sandblasting and grinding, as well as the planned removal of the rear bench...
All the best,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: digger06 on December 26, 2013, 06:30:56 PM
Thanks for all your replies, some especially useful stuff, especially the reliant ratio info. ( not sure who it was said they were pretty much the same -obviously not).


had both on my trike,, its about the same difference as a set of low profiles and a set of v low profile tyres, (16 inch wheels}
however,mine is on a reliant trike though, not a kawi.the ratios in your box will be different
didnt i read this trike was built in 97?
mine was too, its down as built from second hand parts, theres no list of what i used, cos i didnt have an msva, its before that...
does it actually state anywhere that an older non msva trike needs an msva if you alter it?i dunno?



Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on December 26, 2013, 10:05:27 PM
What I meant is that the is a big difference between the highest and lowest. What I need to do next is to check the ratio on my axle, take the trike for a spin to check its suitability, then chose accordingly.
As for a cutoff date for msva, my understanding was that if the convertion was carried out before a certain date (tied to the inception of the test), there was no requirement. However, if the machine was re converted after the cutoff date it would need one (I may be totally wrong but it would seem sensible to me).
Stuff will become clearer I'm sure.
Cheers,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Olds on December 26, 2013, 10:56:44 PM
MSVA is not only for bikes converted to trikes. It applies to mopeds, motorcycles, trikes and quadricycles that have been built or "radically altered" since 2001. This has been well discussed in the bike section. As far as I can ascertain, any alteration to the frame could (but may not) be deemed to be a radical alteration and yes, a vehicle built or modified prior to the introduction of MSVA but "radically altered" afterwards requires MSVA testing.
A similar scheme applies to cars etc.
As for stuff becoming clearer, don't count on it.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: BikerGran on December 27, 2013, 03:56:03 PM
As for a cutoff date for msva, my understanding was that if the convertion was carried out before a certain date (tied to the inception of the test), there was no requirement. However, if the machine was re converted after the cutoff date it would need one

I think (and I may be wrong too) that something that was converted pre-msva would be ok now if it was properly registered at the time and not been significantly modified since, but many just used the log book that came with the Reliant they got the axle from, instead of using the 'points sytem' or re-registering it properly.  But now that everything is computerised and records are linked (dvla, MOT, insurance etc) it's much easier for the powers that be to check on all these things - and they do!  And of course insurance companies are very keen to find legitimate reasons not to pay.

So if you're involved in an accident and your trike isn't properly registered, not only are you not covered by your insurance for repairs and/or injury claims, but you'll get done by plod for using false registration, no insurance, and everything else they can possibly think of!


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on December 27, 2013, 10:15:56 PM
Yeh, thanks for that bikergran, a trike logged with dvla before msva and then tweeked is a world away from one registered as a plastic pig, but I take your point.
Since one or two people one here have mentioned "my" trike as if it's known to them, and have also been good enough to give me advice on legal issues I feel I have to say thankyou, all advice appreciated.
I would still value a share of that knowledge though, if you'd be so kind?
Thanks again,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: spanners on December 27, 2013, 10:30:56 PM
Yeh, thanks for that bikergran, a trike logged with dvla before msva and then tweeked is a world away from one registered as a plastic pig, but I take your point.
Since one or two people one here have mentioned "my" trike as if it's known to them, and have also been good enough to give me advice on legal issues I feel I have to say thankyou, all advice appreciated.
I would still value a share of that knowledge though, if you'd be so kind?
Thanks again,
Huw
huw where did you buy youre trike from ? have you got a picture that you could post on here ?


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Olds on December 27, 2013, 10:43:00 PM
Huw
I guessed that it was Hexcaliber from your description. I remember seeing it for sale. The number plate and unusual rear seat made this one stick in my mind. Sure that I have seen it before but can't remember where.
-Olds
I can try to put a pic up if you wish.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on December 28, 2013, 12:34:32 AM
No, thanks all the same, I need to find out how to anyway, just need some spare time to sort it.
Trike was bought from Builth Wells in mid Wales, apparently built by someone from the ferest of dean area -hexcaliber it was called indeed, about as stupid a name as the rear seat. But we're all different....
Thanks,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: tbone on December 28, 2013, 12:36:26 PM
I considered a Ford irs build some time ago but never got around to it.
I was going to opt for a 3.14:1 diff as fitted to 2.0 Granada`s & 2.8i Sierra`s with a 7" case & bolt on shafts.

The reason for the 7" case as opposed to the 7.5" was purely because it looks a heck of a lot smaller.
The bolt on shafts are designed to run disc brakes, not drums, and are a much stronger design.

The 3.14:1 is now, I believe, a difficult (expensive) thing to get hold of and I think I would happily use a 3.36:1 if that was readily available (Sierra 2.8, 2.9 & 2.5D). A little tweeking with your choice of wheel & tyre sizes should produce acceptable results.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on December 28, 2013, 01:07:52 PM
Yes tbone, that ties up with what my local ford expert said. He also said the small, pot joint diffs could be used with a sleeve in the hub. He's looking out some bits when he can.
Thanks,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: kapri on December 28, 2013, 01:24:26 PM
If registered correctly ie inspected but not issued witha Q it will have details of this on the 'comments' section on the front page of the V5C ie Built from parts some of which may not be new. If built in pre 1984 it won't have a Q plate because they didn't exist then. It would have been issued with a new plate and notes made as mentioned .I have owned several hot rods that are registered like this.

I'm fairly new to legislation only having 40 years experience with it and having been married to the manager of the DVLA LO for 10 years ;)


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: kapri on December 28, 2013, 01:29:43 PM
Meanwhile back to axle ratios , don't forget it is overall gearing that is important so the tyre diamter is very important .From memory Regal /Supervan ran on 13" rims and later Robin / Rialto ran on 10" rims. If you are sticking taller rims still on it you will lose performance and a gear ( effectively) ie The OVERALL ratio will be so tall that pulling of in 'trike gearbox first' will feel " Reliant car second gear' .



Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on December 29, 2013, 03:27:38 PM
Hi and welcome  :)
Perhaps the following Reliant info From my site might help .
...................................................................
AXLE RATIOS ;

AXLE ; STANDARD RATIO { 850cc } ; ..... 3.23
{ The Crown wheel has 42 teeth and the Pinion has 13 teeth}
...........................................................
AXLE ; HIGH RATIO { 850cc } ; .... 2.78
...........................................................
AXLE ; STANDARD RATIO { 750cc } ; .. 3.545
{ The Crown wheel has 39 teeth and the Pinion has 11 teeth }
...........................................................
AXLE ; FOX RATIO; .... 4.11
...........................................................
AXLE ; REGAL SPLIT CASE TYPE ; .... 4.354
...........................................................
STAMP MARK ;
A = 3.23 { The Crown wheel has 42 teeth and the Pinion has 13 teeth }
X = 3.23 { The Crown wheel has 42 teeth and the Pinion has 13 teeth }
No letter = 3.23 { The Crown wheel has 42 teeth and the Pinion has 13 teeth }
B = 2.78
L = 3.545 { The Crown wheel has 39 teeth and the Pinion has 11 teeth }
F = 4.11

Well the marking on the axle is FW40C6, my tippex  rolling test showed it to be 3.23:1, as near as I can tell.
I took it to a local track this morning, 70mph is not quite cruising, and I dont have a rev counter, but it feels about right, it pulls like  a train, despite the added weight of the back end. Any higher and 1st would be too high, any lower would create a screamer. Wheels are 15 inch with lowish profile rubber - just checked, 195 50 15s.
The front end woble all but dissapears over 40mph, looking at the front tyre I would say the odd wear pattern on it could be a factor - does it need to be a round profile tyre, surely a flatter profile would be better?
The ride is diabolical, certainly not enjoyable, but I guess taller tyres with less pressure would improve that. Going round corners leaning the wrong way takes some getting used to...
At 6ft6, it looks way too long, especially now I've chopped off the rear bench seat, also the front bars are turned in too far, on a long spin it would be murder on the wrists.
Plenty to think about.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Olds on December 29, 2013, 06:10:37 PM
Lot of debate over tyres. I can only say what works for me.
 At the front I changed to a 19" (Austin 7) car tyre rather than the usual sidecar fitment as it had higher load and speed ratings. Changed the handling slightly ( less flop at very slow speed ).Never had any wobbles, but the forks are quite raked. The main gain was increased contact patch / better braking and steering in the wet.
At the rear I have 205/50x15 tyres. These are run at 13 psi. Ride is a bit jarring at slow speeds, but gets better with speed ( go fast everywhere :D) I do however have a sprung seat
It takes a while to get used to riding a trike and wide bars are a good way to go.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: terry t on December 29, 2013, 07:42:05 PM
Huw  what the steering, rake and trail on your trike. to much will cause steering wobble, heavy steering, pulling straight when going round a roundabout hard on the arms
I run on a 19" flat profile front tyre with 28psi. and rear tyres 205/55/15 35psi soft tail with no shake or heavy steering mind you I only have 45mm trail


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on December 29, 2013, 10:23:23 PM
Good question, I have plans to take some measurments, it will need a spirit level and laser level, but needs doing. I'm a bit confused about rake,and trail, not sure what the target settings should be. I would like to see more rake on the forks, but this will put more strain on the headstock, as well as the forks. I've read more rake is good to reduce wobble, but too much creates it?

This lead me to thinking of girders, then leading link, however, where do you mount the calliper?
I'll try to take some measurements first, no point rushing into anything. The front tyre has worn unevenly around the zigzag cut, which on its own could be causing some wobble. To my mind a flatter front tyre would be better, what's the point in having a bike front tyre?
Need to sort out the easy stuff first, I wont be cutting up the frame until I have the irs ready to weld on. I would also like a single silencer, which means a 4 into 1 collector and some pipe bending and welding.
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: ByzMax on December 30, 2013, 08:15:19 AM
2 inches of trail on a Trike is about perfect. Girders or leading links will allow a cool looking rake and maintain the 2 inches of trail.

Brake calliper on leading links is mounted on the front axle with a bracket. This must be fully floating. Tat means it should be able to rotate freely when the axle/wheel spindle is done up. You then secure it with an arm that runs from the leading link fork leg. It should run parallel to the leading link arm.


On girders, mount the calliper straight to the leg.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: digger06 on December 30, 2013, 08:32:31 PM
Meanwhile back to axle ratios , don't forget it is overall gearing that is important so the tyre diamter is very important .From memory Regal /Supervan ran on 13" rims and later Robin / Rialto ran on 10" rims. If you are sticking taller rims still on it you will lose performance and a gear ( effectively) ie The OVERALL ratio will be so tall that pulling of in 'trike gearbox first' will feel " Reliant car second gear' .



well put, thats what i was TRYING to say....


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on December 31, 2013, 02:04:10 PM
Good point about overall ratios, I now know I need a 3.23 or lower diff ratio, lower will allow me to run bigger wheels, I'd like 16 or 17s to balance the front/rear look, but its not the end of the world
I know, pics would be nice...

Big thanks on rake /trail info, there is a lot of conflicting stuff out there, maybe because of the bike/trike difference, so its good to here what actually works.
 
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: kapri on December 31, 2013, 03:02:47 PM
Other way round :) taller numerically ie 4.1 will , for the same tyre size will rev higher and lower top speed, as you add diameter to it so the top speed will get higher . So (for demonstration only ) 4.1 WITH 13" TYRES = say 18mph per 1000rpm, 4.1 with tall 15" tyres = around 21 mph/1000rpm ,both quoted in 1:1 ratio gear.

What overal speed per rpm are you trying to get back to ? I'd recomment slightly lower than standard bike to make up for extra weight if you want to maintain same performance as stock bike.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on December 31, 2013, 04:58:49 PM
No, a lower diff ratio - lets not get into numrically vs actual- I'm talking a lower ratio, will allow me run larger wheels. Simple as that. If I cant get a lower ratio then I'm stuck with the 15s and tyres I have now. One thing I do know, the 3.23 I have now, combined with the existing wheels gives an ideal overall ratio.
Thanks,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: scannerzer on December 31, 2013, 09:58:15 PM
which i believe is how mr kapri's example works out


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on January 11, 2014, 02:18:43 PM
Well that was an anticlimax, v5 turns up today, it's taxation class tricycle, no weight recorded, nothing else of note other than in special notes it states it was registered/used overseas and declared manufactured 1983, registered in 97. If dvla know any more about this why not state it in the notes ?
Also, how does the mot tester know the weight for testing, is there a rule that if nothing is recorded it falls in the lower/higher? It surely must have been inspected in 97?
Pooo!
All the best,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: BikerGran on January 11, 2014, 08:28:02 PM
What does it say for Make and Model?


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on January 11, 2014, 09:36:05 PM
Make kawasaki, nothing down for model...
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: BikerGran on January 11, 2014, 10:26:45 PM
Oh well clearly properly registered as a trike anyway!  Not sure that my trike V5 says anything about the weight either.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on February 12, 2014, 11:22:48 PM
Hi, as promised, hopefully this should work. If it does I'll add another. Been busy dismantling the back end - one thing's for certain, whoever built this was no genius with a welder, they came from the school of more must be better. Hours of grinding, and best of all, after removing the chequer plate over the axle i could see something wasn't right. So I held up a straight edge to the axle - kind of above it but in line if you know what i mean. I was right - the axle is actually bent, the wheels going forward around 5mm I would guess.
Anyone seen this before? I'm not too concerned, so long as the casing isn't cracked.
Now I need to cut the axle off, before making some brackets so it can be welded back on properly. All I wanted to do for now was fit a king and queen seat - amazing how a simple job ends up mamoth...
huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on February 12, 2014, 11:32:54 PM
Oh, forgot to add, posted recently on the subject of rear brakes - this doesn't have any - well much anyway, feels like cylinders seized. But the weird thing is, it has mini cylinders - the ones held on with the awkward circlips. I suspect the backplates are mini too...
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Olds on February 13, 2014, 08:57:50 AM
A bent axle is quite common (mine was). Sometimes this is caused by the way it's been mounted in the trike (no support near the hubs), a clipped kerb, or it may have come out of the donor vehicle that way. The tube are very thin. Unfortunately this can put strain on the bearings, half shafts and differential. As well as having a possible detrimental effect on handling. Check to see if the tubes are bent equally or if it's just one.

As for the brakes, the Kitten had twin piston slave cylinders instead of the sliding ones normally found on Reliants.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: fifer on February 13, 2014, 09:31:04 AM
Regarding the mini brakes , the Robins from about 1995 on also had Mini Brakes .
The only difference is the handbrake lever is angled differently .
Have a look at my site ;

https://sites.google.com/site/fifersrelianthintsandtips/brakes/rear 
.
.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Manky Monkey on February 13, 2014, 09:49:10 AM
My brother Brock has a reliant axle in the roadster he's building at the moment. He used a Ford Popular transverse rear spring, (a leaf spring mounted behind the axle & running across the width of the car). It proved strong enough to bend the axle tubes. Not sure if it actually bent them, or moved them slightly in the aluminium diff casing, as they're only held by 3 rivets. Problem sorted by adding a bolt on brace across the back of the axle.
Rather than welding your axle into the frame, it might be better to make up clamps to hold it. As Dave says, Reliant tubes are quite thin, compared to the wall thickness of your frame. Also means you can take the axle out easily if there's a problem with it. Most of the Reliant axles I've had have had Mini brakes.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Olds on February 13, 2014, 10:37:41 AM
Standard Reliant axle tube. Note that it's just welded tube. I replaced mine with 5mm wall cds.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: kapri on February 13, 2014, 04:35:41 PM
It would be very easy to warp that while welding any brackets to it.

Exhaust tube is 1.6mm!


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on February 13, 2014, 06:43:06 PM
Yes brackets it will have - a little further out than original as well. You have to question the strength of the origina design that puts all the weight of the bike and rider almost in the middle of the axle -certainly not where mr reliant intended it. Having said that, my axle is bent in the horisontal plane, I can't see a 750 8v engine producing enough torque to do that. I'm not sure if one or both tubes are bent, or is it where the tubes join the casings.
Fifer, that's one very useful web page, thanks.
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on February 13, 2014, 11:28:42 PM
Well as usual the deeper you dig the worse things get. With thoughts of narrowing the axle, as well as a niggling doubt over the wheelbearing on one side, I pulled the nearside shaft. The bad news is the splines have had it -nearly worn through. Probably through wear caused by the bent axle, but I cant be sure of that.
So, anyone in South Wales got a spare axle?
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: hunter on February 14, 2014, 12:02:45 AM
There is an axle in mountin ash,
But it is a regal,
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Reliant-Back-Axle-For-Trike-Etc-Project-a-Axle-/271401100029?pt=UK_CartsParts_Vehicles_ATVQuad_Trike_Parts_Accessories_SM&hash=item3f30c422fd


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on February 14, 2014, 08:19:01 PM
Yes I had seen it, the casing is different, are the innards the same?
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: zakboy on February 14, 2014, 10:01:26 PM
regal diff inners are diffrent


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on February 16, 2014, 04:55:30 PM
Thanks zakboy,  got my eye on another and there may be one locally. If I didn't have so many projects on the go I'd bite the bullet and go to a sprung rear end with sierra diff, but I really want to race my metro this year and currently its only a roof and sides.
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on February 24, 2014, 10:39:37 PM
I've picked up an axle, looks nothing like the mini braked axle I had on the trike. The casing is different and it has reliant brakes, so I guess it's an early axle. Ratio is 3.5 something (39/11), so I could run bigger tyres to improve the ride. The half shafts look the same, but haven't checked the bearing sizes yet. Oh, and its rusty....
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Olds on February 25, 2014, 07:01:31 AM
I've picked up an axle, looks nothing like the mini braked axle I had on the trike. The casing is different and it has reliant brakes, so I guess it's an early axle. Ratio is 3.5 something (39/11),
If the diff casing is different, then it is an early axle as fitted to the Regal in which case the ratio should be 4.375 : 1 unless it's come from a van then it could be 5.14 : 1
Is it the Mountain Ash axle?


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on February 25, 2014, 06:46:17 PM
No, its one more local to me (2 miles down the road actually). I can count and it is a 3.5, and the casing is different, with a drain plug smackin the middle of the diff cover.
More info as I glean it
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Manky Monkey on February 25, 2014, 06:50:06 PM
The 750cc jobbies had the plug in the middle of the diff casing. The 850s had it to one side. It's a fill plug, rather than a drain one -you're supposed to fill it with oil to the bottom of the plug hole. No idea how you're meant to drain it -I think the seals just leak so much it's never been an issue!


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Olds on February 25, 2014, 07:49:58 PM
Sorry, when you mentioned that it was different, I thought you meant different.  ;)


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: spanners on February 26, 2014, 09:00:21 PM
bond bug ? ? has it had coil over shocks ?


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: BikerGran on February 26, 2014, 10:41:47 PM
The 750cc jobbies had the plug in the middle of the diff casing. The 850s had it to one side. It's a fill plug, rather than a drain one -you're supposed to fill it with oil to the bottom of the plug hole. No idea how you're meant to drain it -I think the seals just leak so much it's never been an issue!

When you turn the axle over as you have to with some bike engined trikes, apparently you don't fill it to the bottom of the plughole, you fill it your finger pushed right into the hole and down, just touches the top of the oil!


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: hunter on February 26, 2014, 11:58:18 PM
Bobbie,What if you got short fingers.
Or long one's. :D ;D


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on February 27, 2014, 12:32:03 AM
Tee hee, as if it matters how much oil is in this axle..
No I dont believe it had coil overs. I've given up trying to trace its ancestry, not much point really, I'm just surprised there isn't a definitive list out there, but hey ho.
Anyway, I've decided to make some new tubes for my original axle, reweld it together with the offset required for a straightish propshaft. Probably go with the 3.5 ratio which will raise the axle and help with the prop alignment as well as improving the ride quallity.
I'll get some pics up asap.
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: hunter on February 27, 2014, 12:24:19 PM
Huw,
Maybe a pic will help identify.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on March 10, 2014, 11:31:14 PM
As I said, no point trying to trace its identity, especially since i will only be using the shafts, I'll call it a 750 axle. It's so rusty I've decided to use my original axle, with new tubes to replace the bent ones. Bought a length of tube on line, seamed 2 inch nominal dia.  I'd "measured" my mangled tube at 2 inch, but when I pushed out the end from the casing tonight found it was something like 1.975, lucky it wasn't the other way round. Anyway the new tube is thicker wall, which adds much needed strength, so tonight I machined up the salvaged bearing carrier to fit inside the tube, ready for welding. Tomorrow night I'll cut to length and machine for press fit, still time to cock it up yet...
The plan is to take 75mm out of one side of the axle, shift the diff across half that amount to closer line up with the Z750 output shaft, and add 12.5mm spacers to both hubs when I replace the wheel studs with bigger dia ones to line the PCD  of the axle to the 100mm wheels. This will restore some of the lost width, the trike will be 25mm narrower each side - barely noticable. I could of course be tempted to add the extra length to the other side, the only added work would be lenghening one shaft. Need to make that decision before cutting the nearside tube I guess, otherwise the diff will be too far across. Decisions decisions.
I've done a mock up using the 750 axle, and allowed the rear of the trike to drop by 25mm or so, again this improves the prop alignment. It looks Ok I guess, even with the original low profile tyres, so I may drop it some more since the planned tyre profile change will raise it back up. Picks to follow tomorrow night, too late tonight.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on March 14, 2014, 05:49:56 PM
Not had much chance to do anything, other than measure this up again - measure twice cut once etc.
The more accurately I tried to measure this the more I struggled, with a real discrepancy from centreline measuring (plumb bob hanging down from the frame spine), as opposed to measuring in from the insides of the frame. Well eventually the light came on - the frame is offset, essentially because its a shafty! Stupid bugger me.
So allowing for not needing to get any closer than 40mm (the vertical offset), means I need to move the diff over 60mm. I've decided I don't want to narrow the axle, so I'll be shortening and lengthening by 60mm. So later on I'll be machining the end of the tube at goes into the diff casing, also drilling and turning a stub in one end of the shaft so I can weld it. Anyone want to guess at the interference fit of 2 inch steel tube into aluminium? About 4 thou would be my guess?
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: morrag on March 14, 2014, 08:58:45 PM
It's worth mentioning again here,I feel, that a truly straight aligned prop.as in this instance, is not only unnecessary, but actually not desirable, as there is then a possibility of 'brinelling' of the universal joint needle rollers occurring. Indeed, consider the attitude of many industrial and agricultural prop. shafts, and you might see what I mean, so, ensure your wheels line up! :D,of course, but prop. alignment, motor output shaft to axle pinion flange, don't be over critical!! Morrag


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: morrag on March 14, 2014, 09:16:35 PM
Something else you might also consider. The track of the orig. axle suited a 4 seater car application! whereas your application will be considerably narrower. I find that a 6" overall narrowing of the standard Reliant axle width, an advantage when filtering in road use, and I believe is ascetically,gives a more balanced look, although that's down to personal taste of course! but as your making new axle tubes, now is the time to consider it......... ??? ??? Morrag


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: BikerGran on March 14, 2014, 09:20:51 PM
Morrag - can you explain 'brinelling' - wonder if that's what happened to my shaft drive.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Olds on March 14, 2014, 09:36:12 PM
Brinelling is where the needle rollers indent into the spider or the bearing cups. This is caused by the needle bearings always transmitting the load in the same place.
Offsetting the axis of the gearbox output and the axle input, reduces this by causing the needle bearings to rotate.
While my axle and gearbox are in line vertically, they are purposely not on the same plane horizontally.
The same problem happens to headstock bearings and causes the familiar notchiness feel on worn steering.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: morrag on March 14, 2014, 10:03:51 PM
Couldn't have said better myself,Olds!!! ;) ;) ;) ;)...Morrag


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Olds on March 14, 2014, 10:16:09 PM
Sorry for jumping in Morrag, but I could see you weren't on line at the time :)


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: BikerGran on March 14, 2014, 11:14:46 PM
Ah, not my problem then.  I get wear in the splines in the bike part of the prop shaft.



Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: morrag on March 14, 2014, 11:17:09 PM
 ; ;D ;D ;D............


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on March 15, 2014, 03:25:17 PM
Good point about the brinnelling, not something I'd considered to be honest. At 40mm vertical and horizontal offset it should be OK?
As to axle widths, yes I could run it narrower, and it would save me lengthening one side, however I think I prefer to keep the width.
Thanks again for comments,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: the coppersmith on March 15, 2014, 05:57:46 PM
11 degrees was the ultimate offset to keep those rollers rolling. But that was years ago I learnt that so could be 11% ?


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on March 19, 2014, 10:44:08 PM
A quick update, made up one side of the axle, new tube, machined to fit, with the original end bearing housing welded on. Some pictures:-
oh poo, too big again.
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: morrag on March 19, 2014, 11:30:47 PM
If you are running Mirosoft's Office on your PC/Laptop, then open your pics with Office Picture Manager, and modifying file sizes becomes a breeze! really, just follow the task bar "destructions" ;)..Morrag


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on March 20, 2014, 10:36:26 PM
Thanks Morrag, don't have office on this machine, a lightening strike took out our main pc around christmas  - (still with insurers), and my samsung tablet has died.
 Tonight I made up the long tube, banged it in to the short casing with a small sledgehammer, so nice'n tight. Need to make up a shaft which I'll rob the 750 axle for (only need the splined end). Before "pressing" in the tube I checked the diff preload, or rather if I had any!
I measured 26 thou on one side, which gives 13thou preload. It feels like it too, with the diff noticably draggy when tightened down. So my question is simple, does anyone know what the preload should be? Also, are there shims available for fitting behind the roller bearings?
thanks,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on March 25, 2014, 12:11:59 AM
Trike still in bits, Tubes made and fitted to the axle, shortened one shaft no probs, but when I pulled the shaft out of the early axle to make the "long" shaft found it was a spindly thin thing! If anyone has a later thicker shaft they want to swap for a narrow one let me know..
Made it up anyway, we'll see if it holds.
 Have started making new seat rails to suit the King/Queen seat, pig of a job, working upside down backwards. Hopefully will have the steel to finish the seat rails/frame to the new axle by the weekend. And I promise by then I'l have some pics...
One Reliant question, does anyone have the procedure (possibly using some spacer tools) to shim a reliant diff? The pinion teeth on mine are hopelessly worn out, so it's time for a replacement crown wheel and pinion. Life's never simple eh?
All the best,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: fifer on March 25, 2014, 12:23:23 AM
Have a wee look at ;
http://s7.photobucket.com/user/sparesman2000/library/parts%20manuals/Axle%20Refurb?sort=3&page=1 (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/sparesman2000/library/parts%20manuals/Axle%20Refurb?sort=3&page=1)
.
.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on March 25, 2014, 08:53:07 PM
LOL photobucket disaster.
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Manky Monkey on March 25, 2014, 09:15:31 PM
Wrong photo? You should be able to edit it with the "Modify" button on the right of your post.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on March 25, 2014, 09:32:41 PM
Ah, I know what I did, paste the links directly in the reply - pillock.
lets see, pic of trike, just a mockup for now, needs the offset axle etc fitting.
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/trikeos_zps4bfece4f.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/trikeos_zps4bfece4f.jpg.html)
The mystery axle with the spindley shafts (early 750 we now think-
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/trikediff_zps259aa4ad.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/trikediff_zps259aa4ad.jpg.html)
My knackered shaft end.
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/splines_zps68a6e892.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/splines_zps68a6e892.jpg.html)
Old axle tubes next to one new one. I now have two, one long, one short -
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/tubes_zps5407321b.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/tubes_zps5407321b.jpg.html)


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on March 25, 2014, 09:36:10 PM
Once I have the seat rails and frame back to the axle made up I'll post some more pics, right now I'm fighting with the pipe bender, ideally I could do with a big propane blowlamp...

Huw, learner photobucket jokey


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on March 25, 2014, 09:49:12 PM
Quote
Have a wee look at ;
http://s7.photobucket.com/user/sparesman2000/library/parts%20manuals/Axle%20Refurb?sort=3&page=1
Thanks Fifer, a mine of information as usual. I'll have a look. Also, thanks, the link somehow took me to photobucket, I've been putting it off for ages, hope you like the pics.
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: fifer on March 25, 2014, 10:29:25 PM
Aha , someone is not a photobucket virgin  ;D ;D
.
Looking  forward to the rest of this post as a pic explains a thousand words  ;D
.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on April 07, 2014, 07:42:15 PM
Aw poo, cocked up photobucket again.
Must try harder,
huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on April 07, 2014, 07:46:28 PM
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/Photo0061_zpsb7702997.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/Photo0061_zpsb7702997.jpg.html)


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on April 07, 2014, 07:51:33 PM
Frame coming together slowly..
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/Photo0060_zps05b1d3d4.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/Photo0060_zps05b1d3d4.jpg.html)
New seat rails made, the diagonals in to the bottom of the frame, and the lateral bars back to the axle. Almost ready for propshaft..
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/Photo0063_zps2528aba0.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/Photo0063_zps2528aba0.jpg.html)
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on April 07, 2014, 07:54:29 PM
That last pic's been squashed by photobucket, the bracket is wide enough for two M10 bolts top and front.
All the best,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on April 07, 2014, 08:15:16 PM
I made the mistake of tacking the axle brackets rather than drilling them, this meant i now have to remove them after lining everything else up.
Quick question, does anyone add a degree or so to the "lean in " to allow for the road camber most usually seen on our roads, given most driving will be on the left side of A or B roads?
Need to finish the axle brackets asap so I can get on with the brake pedal/linkage/master cylinder. Then seat brackets, reweld the tank brackets, mudguards, and 4 into 1 exhaust. Loads to do.
All the best,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Olds on April 07, 2014, 08:34:43 PM
Quick question, does anyone add a degree or so to the "lean in " to allow for the road camber most usually seen on our roads, given most driving will be on the left side of A or B roads?
Not that I've ever heard of. Build it straight and perpendicular. It's not a sidecar outfit.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on April 22, 2014, 11:17:03 PM
Some progress to report. The outside of the frame is welded (but not the triangulation - I wanted to check for distortion first), brackets for the axle drilled and welded to the frame. I'm in the process of making up a new brake mcylinder/linkage, the old one stuck out orizontally under the frame and generally looked poo. The new one is a vertical one off a mini (cooper S actually, the only spare mini one I had), I've rebuilt it with a seal kit and am making a frame to mount it and the original brake pedal/lever together. (is it a pedal or lever on a mcycle?). It will be hidden up inside the frame so hopefully much better.

Anyway this is taking absolutely ages, but it's in one piece, I had to make a new actuator rod since the original was too short, the return spring is fitted, and tomorrow night so will the brake light switch. Then I need to make some mountings and bolt it up, run the hoses and test it. Given it's all mini, and the distance from fulcrum to actuator rod is similar, as is the pedal length, I'm expecting a fairly short throw and brakes that'll lock on command. Famous last words, probably end up with a long pedal and little braking...

I was planning to make a new rear "bumper" out of some stainless pipe I had from my time in the dairy industry (they were the legs on the table on our Bedford cf camper actually). Went to look for them tonight, and after having them lying around for 15 years at least, I have a faint recollection of telling myself "throw them in that scrap, you'll never use them". So bo****ks, no stainless bumper.
All the best,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: BikerGran on April 23, 2014, 08:50:24 AM
That's what stops us all getting rid of all the rubbish, sorry treasures, lying unused in garage or attic for years.  Of course if you don't throw it out you will never, ever need it for anything!


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: the coppersmith on April 23, 2014, 09:23:53 AM
I have a Moskivich ( look it up) oil filter on my shelf, been there since 1972. Alongside a 2 1/2" galvanised pipe nipple, why I dont know  ::)


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on May 11, 2014, 10:21:09 PM
Aha, found the stainless pipe, I'd stuck it in the grill opening of the old cooper. The shame is two bits aren't long enough, I'll have to put something in the middle or weld 3 together.
Progress (slow) to date:-
Have today finished the K/Q seat mountings - swivels, seat lock and and landing pads. I knew it would be a pain but quite frankly I regret not making my own seat from scratch.I had to take the cover and sponge off the pan to repair the rust, as well as fit the aforesaid mountings. I've also just about finished the brake master cylinder pedal box, but I suspect It'll have a clash with the 4 into 1 exhaust I bought on ebay last week, wee'll see when it arrives!
Now that the master cylinder lives where the batter box used to, I've had to turn it 90degrees, making new brackets etc, cables all seem to reach.
Also set about the drive shaft, used a mini cv joint (not for the cv part) to make an adapter between the Kawi UJ and reliant prop. Tomorrow night I'll clock it up on the lathe before tacking it up.
So there is progress, and truth be told I'm getting itchy wanting to try it out, but it's still likely a week or three away.
Cheers,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on May 12, 2014, 10:31:44 PM
Spent tonight making up the propshaft, and I may have made a mistake. The original prop didn't have a slider, which was a bit of a cockup if you think the axle was welded into the frame! But, I figured, since the new axle is bolted in, a solid prop would be fine. The problem is now I'm not so sure, it needs to be held in quite closely, and if it's slack it can move around and out of line quite a bit. The original end had a locating pin - the haynes manual isn't clear whether this is spring loaded. My question is, what do other kawasaki gt/z 550/650/750 owners use - a sliding joint with locking pin or wedged in shaft? 
If it needs to use the original locking pin (which I'll have to make cos i don't have one), I'll have to lop the back end off the shaft and fit a mini driveshaft spline and hardy spicer (which I believe some relliants had originally).
Please let me know what you think?
Regards,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: BikerGran on May 13, 2014, 07:48:39 PM
My GT550 trike uses the orginal swingarm from the bike - which of course contains the bike propshaft.  This is cut and joined to the propshaft stub from the Reliant axle.  I guess there is some sort of slider in the bike propshaft end?



Some pics here which may help.....
http://s195.photobucket.com/user/BikerGran_photos/library/GT550%20Trike%20conversion?sort=4&page=1 (http://s195.photobucket.com/user/BikerGran_photos/library/GT550%20Trike%20conversion?sort=4&page=1)


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on May 14, 2014, 03:06:02 PM
mmm, very interesting, you have no swivel at the diff end at all, and no slider since this was at the back. I wonder if the locating pin has been removed?
Did you sell her BG?
Thanks for replying by the way.
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: terry t on May 14, 2014, 03:43:54 PM
Same setup I use no uj at the diff just used the original slide coupling and cog of the bike diff   


(http://i61.tinypic.com/ejeses.jpg)      (http://i57.tinypic.com/s6sind.jpg)

(http://i59.tinypic.com/11rab6p.jpg)   (http://i62.tinypic.com/2cxjfpv.jpg)


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on May 14, 2014, 07:19:49 PM
Is that a reverse gear on the shaft I see?
I welded up the shaft, it seems to spin true without any wobble, guess I'll try it.
Thanks,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: BikerGran on May 14, 2014, 09:09:42 PM
mmm, very interesting, you have no swivel at the diff end at all, and no slider since this was at the back. I wonder if the locating pin has been removed?
No idea about locating pin, I wasn't the builder.  The shafts line up just about perfectly as the axle is shortened.

Quote
Did you sell her BG?

Nope, but I'm still debating as I haven't used her much - still, hopefully we have a proper summer to come.  If someone madev me an offer I couldn't refuse I might - but it's not likely in these hard times.  And I do love her!


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on May 14, 2014, 10:20:44 PM
Master cylinder/pedal box thing:-

(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/mastercyl_zpsf0107555.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/mastercyl_zpsf0107555.jpg.html)


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on May 14, 2014, 10:28:16 PM
From behind:-
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/mastercylrear_zps63231914.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/mastercylrear_zps63231914.jpg.html)


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on May 14, 2014, 10:34:40 PM
In the frame:-
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/mastercylinframe_zps4267aead.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/mastercylinframe_zps4267aead.jpg.html)

The propshafts old and new:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/props_zps413e8406.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/props_zps413e8406.jpg.html)

Back axle, short tube:-
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/shorttube_zpse3949359.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/shorttube_zpse3949359.jpg.html)

The long one is pretty similar....
All the best,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on May 16, 2014, 06:24:08 PM
Damnit all why does photobucket insist on turning all my pics into portrait?
Anyway, shiney bits came today:-
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/Photo0080_zpse831481a.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/Photo0080_zpse831481a.jpg.html)
Motad 4 into 1.

As suspected, there looks to be a clash with the master cylinder/pedal pivot, but I won't be certain until I bolt everything up. The headers are slightly smaller diameter (they were from a gpz550), but since I won't be extracting the last percentage of rpm out of the old 750, that shouldn't cause a problem - in fact it might improve mid range since it's a 4 into 1?
I'm planning a cut and shut, extending the system, using some thin wall 2 inch stainless milk pipe, anyone bent this stuff? Sand and a propane torch?
All the best, Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Manky Monkey on May 16, 2014, 09:12:33 PM
I ran Motads on my XS750s, as well as my XS850 & XS1100. Nice systems & seemed to give the best aftermarket pipe performance.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on May 18, 2014, 10:08:51 PM
It's time to sort my axle out properly, that means setting the diff pre-load and backlash. Thanks Fifer for the reliant instructions, the gist of which are that reliant use dummy bearings, setting tools that mount on the backplate flanges, and a dummy pinion. Now while all this is possible to replicate, it seems kind of a lot of work for one axle.
My thoughts are that I could re-set the pre-load to something sane (if I recall I measured some 26 thou), then check ther's "a little" backlash and hope for the best. The difficult bit is removing and refitting the diff side bearings every time I need to change shims, bolt up the casing, and remeasure - kind of slow work.
Unless someone has any other suggestions?
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: BikerGran on May 20, 2014, 10:54:04 AM
Now bearing in mind that I've never built anything and don't really know what you're on about........

When my trike was built the builder sourced a reliant axle., shortened it, and built the trike.  Why does all that other stuff need doing?


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on May 20, 2014, 03:55:57 PM
Shortening the axle is easy (relatively), just shorten and reassemble.  If you change the diff inside the casing you have to set the bearing preload - I suspect mine had been changed at some point omitting this task. Also, you have to ensure the pinion meshes at the correct point on the crownwheel (it's a bevel gear so in/out as well as left/right is important). My pinion has worn to hell on one side, it still works, but how much extra drag it puts on who knows. So I bought a 2nd hand crownwheel and pinion to fit my diff, which as I started off with is over (pre)loaded between the casings.
Guessing all this is not good, but there is some paint out there which you can use to tell/tale the contact patch, I just need to find it. Some more research required I think.
Thanks,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: terry t on May 20, 2014, 04:52:28 PM
Is that a reverse gear on the shaft I see?
I welded up the shaft, it seems to spin true without any wobble, guess I'll try it.
Thanks,
Huw

It was yes


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: BikerGran on May 20, 2014, 08:35:29 PM
If you change the diff inside the casing you have to set the bearing preload - I suspect mine had been changed at some point omitting this task. Also, you have to ensure the pinion meshes at the correct point on the crownwheel (it's a bevel gear so in/out as well as left/right is important). My pinion has worn to hell on one side, it still works, but how much extra drag it puts on who knows. So I bought a 2nd hand crownwheel and pinion to fit my diff, which as I started off with is over (pre)loaded between the casings.

Ah I see, thanks for that!

Quote
there is some paint out there which you can use to tell/tale the contact patch, I just need to find it. Some more research required I think.

Now that I CAN help with - I think this is what you're after...  "Engineer's Blue"

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Miscellaneous-Tin-of-Micrometer-Blue/dp/B005LV1YVC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1400617958&sr=8-1&keywords=engineers+blue (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Miscellaneous-Tin-of-Micrometer-Blue/dp/B005LV1YVC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1400617958&sr=8-1&keywords=engineers+blue)


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on May 24, 2014, 10:11:23 PM
I bought a gt 550 motad 4 into 1, assuming it would fit. We'll surprise surprise it didn't. So it came down to buying another and selling mine on, or lengthening my down pipes. Being a tight fisted git I decided to go for it with the thin discs.
The result, I had to lengthen the two near side tubes. Used some stainless pipe, slotted, drilled and welded through. It looks ok, I must say, pics tomorrow. I also found some Astra 16v front pipe which has the necessary kink to pass the brake master cylinder. More stainless welding tomorrow then...
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: BikerGran on May 24, 2014, 10:47:32 PM
A lot of people think the 550 and 750 have more in common than they do - even ther frame is different!


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on May 25, 2014, 07:26:50 PM
nice chrome 550 headers:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/Photo0084_zps6ef2a590.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/Photo0084_zps6ef2a590.jpg.html)

See the lengthening tubes ?:

(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/Photo0085_zpsf669ab4b.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/Photo0085_zpsf669ab4b.jpg.html)

Now to finish the axle.
All the best,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: BikerGran on May 25, 2014, 07:28:45 PM
 :D


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: saex69 on June 07, 2014, 04:39:33 PM
Your bike is coming on a treat Minimutly going back to your thread about welds i'v seen so some really bad welds over the the years doing custom show's at Stormin and other rally's, 2 years a go there was a bike which was a disaster waiting to happen they had struts on the rear end that looked as if they were tacked on and not very straight with welding that look'd like a young child had done it i just had to tell the guy if he did not have a death wish he should go and get some one who can weld ASAP to do the job done properly.


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on June 08, 2014, 10:01:55 PM
I seem to remember reading a note from a sva inspector, or was it from the manual (may even have been the Race msa  blue book), something along the lines of a good looking weld not guaranteed to be good, but  one that looks bad will almost certainly fail.
I spent ages trying to improve the welding of a colleague who is building a locust for the road. After a long time trying and not really getting anywhere I realised he couldn't see the pool. I tried his helmet, I couldn't see with it either!
A new helmet improved things immensely.
I've just come back from a week in Cyprus, so nothing done to the trike for a week.
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: BikerGran on June 09, 2014, 02:33:50 PM
If I had a choice between a week in Cyprus and working on a trike I wouldn't have got much done either!


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on June 25, 2014, 11:43:19 PM
Time for an update, still not much done, but been considering how to reduce the diff preload to something sane.
We'll I managed to modify an old puller by boring the centre out to take my Sykes pic hydraulic ram - didn't take me as long as I thought, but I'd never cut an internal thread before so I was going into the unknown a bit.
3 mini head studs with mini manifold (nice and thick) washers welded on and shaped to fit the recesses behind the bearing made the legs, with a jubilee clip to stop them spreading. It worked a treat.
I removed 5 thou first, but felt it could do with more taken out, so another 3, which gave me 4 thou of preload.
I don't know what the figure should be it it feels about right.
So Friday I'll be looking for a pair of wheel bearings and a diff seal. One question to the reliant experts -my oil seal was a leather thing, can I just fit a std oil seal? Assuming there is one that fits of course.
All the best,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on June 29, 2014, 10:35:22 PM
some progress today.
Welded the frame up, moved the brake master cylinder up half an inch (every bit helps when things are tight).
The axle is together, but the spares shop have ordered bearings and lips seal so they won't be here until Tuesday night.
Bolted the axle on, started putting together the brakes (new min back plates), but I could do with a drum if anyone has a decent spare? Can you still buy these things?
I've given up on the srad can I bought on eBay and went an bought another one, so hopefully by the end of the week I can weld that up.
All the best,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Manky Monkey on June 29, 2014, 10:44:38 PM
Srad can?
Can we have some photos to look at please!


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on June 30, 2014, 04:23:52 PM
Suzuki 1200 I think? Scotch mist more like it, since I'm still waiting....
I'm putting it on its wheels Tuesday/weds so I'll take some pics then. Nothing more depressing than a one wheeled trike in the summer.
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on July 07, 2014, 11:11:07 PM
This is the can I bought while waiting for the one bought a month and a half ago:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/Photo0104_zps908b76b8.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/Photo0104_zps908b76b8.jpg.html)
spot the mistake:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/Photo0105_zps1415d442.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/Photo0105_zps1415d442.jpg.html)

On the positive side, the weekend was spent sorting out my new backplates, redrilling hubs and metro drums and trial fitting everything. I had ordered bearings locally, but gave up after a week and ordered them from reliant spares.

Boring drum and hub together:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/Photo0099_zps5ffeb7c5.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/Photo0099_zps5ffeb7c5.jpg.html)
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/Photo0098_zpse76f63d9.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/Photo0098_zpse76f63d9.jpg.html)

The finished article - no more bent studs here:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/Photo0102_zpsf6fdd9d9.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/Photo0102_zpsf6fdd9d9.jpg.html)

On the way not everything was smooth going, the new backplates, bought from a major mini parts retailer up north, were a pile of poo, pattern items that had been downgraded, with a resulting built in flaw:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/Photo0107_zps5fb36e88.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/Photo0107_zps5fb36e88.jpg.html)
can you spot it? yes the shoe is not perpedicular to the axle! talk about not impressed...
The answer was to remove and reweld the adjuster end:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/Photo0108_zps120d7799.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/Photo0108_zps120d7799.jpg.html)

This made things look a little better:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/Photo0109_zps2c843864.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/Photo0109_zps2c843864.jpg.html)

The nex job, once the bearings have arrived and I've built up the axle, is to temporarily mount the can and pipe it up. I'm thinking I'll knock out the cat, anyone have any thoughts on this? The engine can't use it, since its an 83 kawa on carbs, it will probably get gummed up?

Hope the pics come out,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on July 09, 2014, 05:34:03 PM
Update on my earlier message, the viper can arrived, much better option, it's shorter, lighter and straight through, so that sounds like the one to use.
To explain why I mow have two, the viper can was on ebay as pick up only (which I missed when I bought it), so I paid the seller to package it up an stick a label on it. Hermes were contracted to pick it up and deliver it.
To say their service was poor is an understatement. They took a month of complaining to tell me the label was out of date!
I tried other carriers, ups being one of them, but their web page account was impossible to fathom out. I ended up with transglobal express - a sort of broker for couriers. The courier of choice? Ups! Anyway, 2 days later the box turned up.
So if you want fast, easy service, transglobal is your provider, the less said about the other the better.
The new can is on, waiting for someone to pipe it up.
All the best,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: Manky Monkey on July 09, 2014, 05:41:34 PM
You know I'm a Postman don't you? Bloomin' cowboy courier companies!  :D


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on July 09, 2014, 08:57:44 PM
Lol, it's hard to believe how bad they were. Also, although I admit to not searching too hard, how difficult it was to find a courier willing to pick up. You're going to tell me now that the PO pick up?
I must say that when I sell on ebay my courier is always the local PO, 2nd class with compensation works well for me.
All the best,
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: andyrennison on July 14, 2014, 10:46:54 PM
Boring drum and hub together:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/Photo0099_zps5ffeb7c5.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/Photo0099_zps5ffeb7c5.jpg.html)
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/Photo0098_zpse76f63d9.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/Photo0098_zpse76f63d9.jpg.html)
Hi Huw

How did you ensure the drum was central on the hub before you rebored the hub through the drum (it looks like you did that, right??)

Did yo open the existing stud holes in the hub, or create new ones??

Cheers

Andy


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on July 15, 2014, 12:04:53 AM
The metro drum has a smaller locating bore than the lip reliant machined onto face of the hub. I set up the drum in the lathe, bored it out to suit this lip then and just clamped the two together with some 10mm bolts. (I also had to machine the hub/drum face (on the inside of the drum) to allow for the slightly larger diameter of the hub).
Bore the first two through the drum and the existing stud holes, then transfer the bolts one at a time to the new holes, rotate the assembly on the miller, centre the holes to be drilled using the drum holes and bore away.
I used some old rover studs and a 1/2 inch slot drill.
Once finished i tried the whole lot up using one of the spare shaft ends I had, it was pretty close, but always nice to check.
All in all a fair bit of faf, but I had everything I needed, and the metro drums are a lot beefier than the reliant ones, plus I would have ended to buy one or possibly two new reliant drums.
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: andyrennison on July 15, 2014, 07:40:55 AM
Thanks for the explanation Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on July 15, 2014, 08:25:15 PM
Using the reliant drums would have been a whole lot easier, but where's the fun in that?
Huw


Title: Re: rear end ratios
Post by: minimutly on August 10, 2014, 09:35:14 PM
Some progress to report.
I finally got my exhaust made up. Front end is motad chrome, cut off after the collector, with a stainless section (from a 16v vauxhall manifold) welded on, bolted to a nexus ally straight through box. pics to follow, but the best thing is I fired her up for the first time in months. Firstly I thought crikey, it's leaking like a sieve, then I realised I hadn't put in a lambda sensor...
After fitting said sensor, and some tightening of header bolts, it stopped leaking. And after warming her up I must say she sounded awesome, much better than when on 4 individual pipes with attenuators.
Mixture is terribly weak, so carbs are to come off to clean and raise the needles, then we'll see what the lambda says on the road....
Brake pipes next, then handbrake. Then I'll have to get back to the rear bumper and some tig welding.
Happy bunny me.
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on August 10, 2014, 09:54:29 PM
Well done you Huw.
A Lambada sensor? You don't like dancing then?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Plasticpig on August 10, 2014, 10:15:15 PM
Huw.

I just read this thread properly, and must say that I have only just come back to Mankey's after a break.

I am in Ely, Cardiff, and if you are anywhere close, give us a shout.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: hunter on August 10, 2014, 10:35:56 PM
I'm going to guess that he's in or near swansea.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 11, 2014, 04:17:49 PM
Nooo, an hour west of Swansea...
Be good to meet up, better still if I have something to show. Sadly it's all taking far longer than it should..
All the best,
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: morrag on August 11, 2014, 05:39:27 PM
You'll be in the sea then! :D :D :D........Morrag


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Plasticpig on August 11, 2014, 08:40:50 PM
I used to live in Haverfordwest until 1999.

Don't worry about the ride. I have been building stuff for twenty years, and still don't have a trike.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: morrag on August 11, 2014, 09:59:54 PM
I'll be down in Harry-West tomorrow, one of my brothers lives there........Morrag


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 11, 2014, 10:10:29 PM
'Arfud, as the locals call it. I'm around 30 mins north, on the edge of the Preseli hills.
On the jetting subject, anyone care to recommend a uk online sales outlet for Keiheins?
Thanks,
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: hunter on August 11, 2014, 11:56:29 PM
Here you go.
http://www.allensperformance.co.uk/


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 12, 2014, 05:55:43 PM
Thanks, had found them, always good to have a recommendation.
Need to strip mine to see what I have, there were cheapo k&ns on there, but of course the exhaust has been changed since then.
All the best,
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 12, 2014, 10:53:40 PM
Progress report.
Piped up the rear brakes, took a while but managed to bleed them, eventually. Pedal is good, we'll see what they're like on the road once run in, but since it's all mini with .75 slaves it should be OK.
Now the exhaust is fitted it's shown up a problem. Chassis stiffness, or lack of it!
When I lean on the handlebars the front end is flexing relative to the back end, this is shown up by the back of the exhaust moving relative to the axle, not by much, but it's visible. bo****ks!
There is only a limited amount I can do about it, but since the airbox is gone I can weld in a set of diagonals under the seat. the engine is in the hole under the tank  :'(
There may be a possibility for bracing behind the exhaust headers, but it's tight and I'll have to remove the exhaust to do it. Solid mounting the engine is a possibility I suppose, but does anyone have experience of the kawasaki gt 750 in a solid frame?
Also I've noticed when I push on the handlebars only one front shock moves up and down, I would expect one to go down, the other to go up. So forks strip down on the cards then, jeez, it never ends....
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on August 13, 2014, 09:03:16 PM
I love custom vehicles, don't you?!
My XS650 bike engine's solid mounted. Most 70's/80s bike engines were. The XS is a pretty lumpy ol' twin &, apart from the need to have a head steadying bracket, like the standard bike, I've never had problems with them being solid mounted. All my Reliant trike engines were too. 


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 20, 2014, 10:07:39 PM
Update.
I've not solid mounted the engine yet, but i have braced the lower axle tubes with a pair of crossed diagonals, also braced the (extended) seat rails which now go back to the axle mount. As well as this I've put a diagonal behind the engine, and a new cross tube at the top, just under the tank mounts.
The only addition I can think of is a brace in front of the engine, behind the headers, perhaps, we'll see.
How did I decide where to put them? Easy, place a tube where you think it's needed, jamb one end hard into the corner and waggle the frame, if the free end moves, it needs a brace.
With all the mods, is it improved? Yes it feels much stiffer, I won't know how much until I refit the exhaust -that was my indicator. Also, before the work you could feel movement between the head and the frame, now it's negligible.
So what's next? We'll I plan to make some gussets, once fitted that's the main frame done, then the new back bumper, then I need to check some dodgy looking welding under the headstock....
Did I mention handbrake,carb jets, front wheel bearing, forks?
On the subject of carb jets, I've searched the web times over, but struggling to find any detail on the Keiheins I have fitted. It would seem they normally have 3 jets, but mine only have two. Haynes is suitably vague, and I can only fid references to later cvk's. Anyone know?
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 24, 2014, 11:13:30 AM
Update on jetting. There is a whole lot of garbage out there, mostly on American forums. The gist of it it's that you have to have mikuni , and a dynojet stage x kit.
Reading between the lines it does seem there is more expertise out there on mikunis and available jets.
On top of this you have Both types with single and twin butterflies, and also with single and twin main jets (or primary and secondary jets). What this does mean is that the jetting for twin main jets has no bearing on required jetting for singles, and there is very little out there on single jet keihin settings....
Currently I have 35 Pilots, which seem to be similar to others are using, 125 main jet, and probably some mongrel needle which looks nicely tapered, and has 4 settings (now on its highest).
 The only issue I have is the idle fuel screw on one of them is seized and split, so it'll need drilling and extracting - we'll see how that goes...
So am I going to persevere wither the "rubbish" Keiheins? You bet, my experience with su's, use of the lambda, and if I need to I can stick it on the rollers should make it doable.
All the best,
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on September 18, 2014, 11:23:51 PM
Quick update on this. The carbs are fixed, with covers painted black. The engine is having to come out so I can weld behind the cross brace behind the headers. I'm planning to take advantage of this to paint the frame. however, this means I need to finish welding the mudguard brackets, lugs for brake pipes, and the stainless rack off the wife's mgtf...
Pics to come once the engine is out and rear mudguards/bumper is finished.
On another subject, I've started collecting bits for the next one, hopefully will get a front end on eBay, if the price is right and I can organize courier. I've decided to use the controls loom and switches off a kawasaki 400 I bought with the yam turbo, so that should make life easier.
If anyone needs bits for a kawasaki 400 twin let me know - seat, engine, wheels etc
All the best,
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on October 29, 2014, 06:38:41 PM
Update on the last update.
The engine is out, I welded up behind the cross braces last night. Prepping frame for paint next.
The wife's rack ( off her mgtf), wouldn't do it, so I bought some more stainless, it's not finished but will. Have to wait until the engines back in now. Also need to fit the handbrake and cables, so this will likely be done before paint.
Piccies soon, promise,
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: andyrennison on October 30, 2014, 10:15:27 AM
Looking forward to seeing this


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: hunter on October 30, 2014, 10:18:32 AM
I'm surprised Merv hasn't popped in ;)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: merv on October 30, 2014, 06:47:55 PM
I'm still hear, cheeky


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: trev on October 31, 2014, 12:28:14 PM
yeh,got any photo,s.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on November 14, 2014, 08:58:02 PM
Here we go, some pics
The triangulated back end:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/SDC11028_zps0861f17b.jpg)

The new rear bumper - not really happy with it, the plate mounting is too big:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/SDC11029_zps05a7b984.jpg)

Frame cross bracing under seat area:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/SDC11027_zps0df73d9d.jpg)

More under the headstock:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/SDC11024_zps605fb150.jpg)



Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on November 14, 2014, 09:08:06 PM
Serious slab yokes:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/SDC11023_zpsee786a66.jpg)

I'm not sure you could class this as progress, I seem to be going backwards..
Now the front wheel is off, and I'm looking for a bigger disc,
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: terry t on November 14, 2014, 09:15:53 PM
looking good Huw. is the axle welded to the frame or can it be removed :)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on November 14, 2014, 09:26:37 PM
No way, the original axle was welded into the frame, bloody stupid idea! It's bolted in with 4 m10 bolts on each side.
I had to post this, one day I'll make a v6 version of this or something like it:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/v8smoothie2_zpsd1fbcb2e.jpg)
Sorry, I know it's been here before...
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: hornet6 on November 16, 2014, 12:09:16 PM
The front end on that looks great


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on April 12, 2015, 07:03:39 PM
Just bought a spare engine for my trike:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Kawasaki-KZ750-Gpz750-Gpz-750-KZ-750-engine-complete-spares-or-repair-Z750-/161658268431?autorefresh=true&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2047675.l2557&nma=true&si=re30B61Q6IVuDdamGasSleI%252FVYw%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc
Hopefully will never need it, but the price was right.
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on April 12, 2015, 07:27:18 PM
Now back thinking about this project again. One of the issues is the front disc being too small, originally the kwack was a twin disc, now it only has one, and with a slab front and rear wheel on the front it's not going to be easy to find a bigger disc to fit. (When I say too small, the breaking was poor, and I noticed the pads were actually overhanging the disc - another killer designed in feature by the original builder).
So I'm now thinking around getting a bigger front disc and machining up an adapter to fit it to the (rear) wheel.
Does anyone have any views on this? Even if I have to move the caliper out along the spindle line, as well as out in radius it shouldn't be a problem, I have enough room.
With any luck I could cure the pad overhang as well as improve the brakes?
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on April 15, 2015, 10:20:37 PM
Kawasaki gt750 engine in the boot of my car, it's going on the shelf in work for now. When I get time I'll strip it.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: BikerGran on April 16, 2015, 12:14:03 AM
Just bought a spare engine for my trike:
Hopefully will never need it, but the price was right.
Huw

Wasn't it just!  Hope it's a good 'un!


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Stix on April 16, 2015, 06:49:46 AM
What is the diameter of the disc you have at the moment??
I think I have one from a Kawasaki vn 1500 hanging on a nail in the garage (will check it is still there later today) if it is any good to you it's yours as I don't think I will have a use for it.

just had a look and it is 300 mm diameter.

Stix


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on April 16, 2015, 07:52:45 PM
Yes please, 300mm is 50mm bigger than my existing disc. Can you check the inside dia, and is it round?
I'll get some metal for the adapter, the caliper mount is offset 20mm or so because of the wide front end, so should be able to machine a new offset mount for it.
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Stix on April 16, 2015, 08:06:17 PM
Yup it is round. The disc is known as a floating one as the disc is held to the centre with rivet type things, will try to remember to measure it tomoz, you will have to send me a pm with your addy and post code.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on April 20, 2015, 06:55:50 PM
Pm sent, I'm thinking this should work ok. Would you retain the floating disc, or convert to fixed?
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Stix on April 20, 2015, 08:19:24 PM
Keep it floating as it allows for expansion when it gets hot in use, I have it boxed up and will put it in the post Wednesday morning, can't do it before as a bit busy tomoz.
Stix


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Stix on April 22, 2015, 08:23:07 AM
Disc is in the post 48 hour delivery tracked and to be signed for, £14.00 postage coz of the weight.

Stix


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on April 22, 2015, 04:39:28 PM
Thanks Stix, pm me with your address please.
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on April 24, 2015, 01:33:38 PM
Disc has arrived, thanks Stix, pm me with the name you want me to put on the cheque please.
Now, I have a question for the bike experts. Sod's law the mounting holes are even/odd and quite close to original, this means I can't just make up an adapter with holes for new disc and wheel, unless I redril some holes in the new disc. The other option is to remove the inner part of the floating disc and make a new one, so not requiring an adapter. To do this I would need to find new rivet inserts. Are they available, and is this doable? Either way I will end up with a non std disc, and if I can change the centre, it will be a better job.
Opinions please?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: hunter on April 24, 2015, 02:51:50 PM
Does this answer your question.
http://www.thediscdoctor.co.uk/Bobbins.htm


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Stix on April 24, 2015, 02:52:49 PM
Can you not just drill the holes to suit the hub then countersink them in the spacer then turn a few degrees and drill a second set for the disc??

John Page on the cheque.

Stix


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on April 24, 2015, 06:56:35 PM
Thanks for the link hunter, immediately made me come over all lazy and just order a custom cut centre...
Stix, not possible to do what you suggest, there will allways be a clash unless I drill the disc. I'll price up a new centre, see what it'll cost, if it's cheap I'll order one.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on April 28, 2015, 08:18:17 PM
Stix, pm sent.
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Stix on April 28, 2015, 08:22:43 PM
Answered but did put my name three posts up.  ;D

Stix


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on April 28, 2015, 09:31:39 PM
Blind as a bat me...


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Stix on May 12, 2015, 01:17:50 PM
sorry should have said a couple of days ago, cheque arrived and going in bank thursday.

Stix


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on May 13, 2015, 12:31:35 AM
Progress, albeit slow progress. Managed to persuade the disc doctor to make me a new carrier, hopefully in the next two weeks. So I can get on with the other jobs.
In currently remaking the foot plates for the pillion, reusing the original chequer plate (yes I know), however there is much less of it, and it will be painted black.
I've also made a pair of side panels for below the seat, and another bit of recycling means I've made a seat box out of the sides of our old clothes drier. A bit thin, but a folded edge has helped.
Next I need to make some lugs to attach the panels to the frame, and a lower side panel to protect the prop from errant laces etc.
I've made a list, it's half an a4....
Priority is lugs for foot plates, brake pipes, handbrake mounting and cables, rear diff torque reaction bracket, then at least I can paint it - oops, forgot gussets for the new rear end first.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on May 31, 2015, 08:56:29 PM
Progress this weekend:
I finally got round to correcting two frame alignment issues, the axle mounts were 1/4 inch out laterally - in other words one wheel was in front of the other. This proved to be a relatively easy fix, I just cut the metal out of the rear frame and re welded the axle mounting bracket.
The other fault was potentially more difficult to fix - the trike had a list to the left of 1 degree. The problem was i'de done some stiffening/triangulation work previously, which made the job a pig. Various joints had to be cut and rewelded, which, along with a 4 ton body jack did the trick. I had to extend one of the under seat diagonals by 12mm, this meant slash cutting, inserting a tube and welding in a new, longer piece.
Happily, I now have a straight frame attached to a vertical bike front end. The reason for this problem occurring was that I hadn't removed the engine when I built the frame, hence I couldn't check the frame using the swing arm pivot holes as a reference. With the engine out, all became obvious.
As Benny hill said, learning all the time...
It just goes to show that building a trike without a jig, or at least a frame is nigh on impossible while the engine is still in the frame, should have known better I guess. One other thing, I now have a magnetic digital angle gauge, which can be dropped onto any bar, axle or tube - a must have I'd say.
Next is the gussets for the frame, followed by the sissy bar and grab handles. I can smell the paint allready.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: andyrennison on June 03, 2015, 09:32:37 PM
Huw, how did you measure to an accuracy of one degree. I'm impressed!


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: terry t on June 03, 2015, 10:15:41 PM
Built mine with engine still in frame. set bike up on bench level and plumb ran a line down centre of frame for axle and checked back from swing arm pivots for square. mine runs straight and handles well on corners and roundabouts 8)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on June 03, 2015, 11:24:42 PM
One of these little burgers:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/GemRed-Digital-Angle-Finder-Gauge-Bevel-Box-/120687905972?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item1c198f4cb4

I've had it a while, but couldn't use it because the frame isn't symetrical ( and old),  until I took the engine out so I could run a tube across the rear swing arm pivot points.

I'm not saying it wouldn't have run true, the original trike was fine, and everything was bent on that. The only issue I had riding it was the head shake at low speed, but I'm of the opinion that was more to do with chassis flex than anything else, and I've pretty much sorted that.

Anyway, all welded up now, making gussets, priming bits I can, need to make a low cissy bar. I really hope I can paint the frame in the next week or two. Then I need the disc doctor to sort my front disc out, and we'll be almost ready to rebuild...


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: andyrennison on June 04, 2015, 08:44:48 AM
One of these little burgers:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/GemRed-Digital-Angle-Finder-Gauge-Bevel-Box-/120687905972?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item1c198f4cb4

That's a nice bit of kit


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on June 08, 2015, 10:23:26 PM
Gussets, gussets everywhere....
Frame really coming on now, lugs for brake pipes done, pillion foot plates and lugs done, ally side panels cut down from originals done, and did I mention gussets?
I've bought some metallic purple (the original colour), and some high build primer, so with some luck I can put some paint on it soon. I just hope I don't forget something....


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on June 14, 2015, 04:37:20 PM
Some pics

(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg2_zps9kyjykrd.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image.jpg2_zps9kyjykrd.jpg.html)[/url]

(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg4_zpsvet0htkj.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image.jpg4_zpsvet0htkj.jpg.html)[/url]

(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg2_zpsksl5tjxl.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image.jpg2_zpsksl5tjxl.jpg.html)[/url]

With any luck they'll come out ok, thinking about it, the only progress looks like the primer and some gussets, what's not obvious is the correction to the frame and lugs for brake pipes and foot plates.
All the best.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on June 14, 2015, 04:44:07 PM
Well, I don't know, I'm seeing two of all of these?
In the one of the axle, should have pointed out the axle vent - sort of egg shaped stainless bit welded onto the tube. The hole is up underneath the dome, so I shouldn't get any water in there.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on June 27, 2015, 10:39:40 PM
Bent up and tacked on the cissy bar this afternoon. also started on the grab handles (is that really what they're called?), from below the seat up and back across the cissy bar. The only problem is it highlights the seat cover/ foam being off to one side. Looks like I'll have to redo that bit again.
No chance to do any more for a while, off to Corfu for a week. I wonder if the airline co will be able to buy paraffin for the trip back? Hope not...
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on July 29, 2015, 11:29:36 PM
Cissy bar and grab rails finished, the curvs aren't perfect, so i may still try some heat to correct the nearside one, its not serious, but i can see it and it will annoy me.
Started on the handbrake, managed to fit the bar, using a pair of rover cables going to the mini backplates.
The issue ive come across is the cable runs look like something out of an Alien film, so i've decided to make some swivel quadrants to allow the cables to run along the axle line, if slightly in front of it.
I will need to make some swaged ends, anyone got any suggestions? I was thinking steel mig welded on the end?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 13, 2015, 05:28:08 PM
I now have a handbrake!
I decided i didnt like the look of the cables coming at the drums in the direction they needed to to pull the levers, so i decided to make some mini style quadrants. These allow the cables to run allong the length of the axles, thereby making a neater job. Now they exit the rover handbrake mechanism, curve around the back of the diff, left and right to each wheel.
This means a step closer to paint, next is refixing the rear rack.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on August 13, 2015, 11:47:20 PM
Love the space frame chassis. Looking very swoopy Mr M. Nice.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 14, 2015, 01:35:02 PM
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg1_zpsm1wss1vj.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image.jpg1_zpsm1wss1vj.jpg.html)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 14, 2015, 01:38:55 PM
Handbrake detail:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg2_zpssha2j8ui.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image.jpg2_zpssha2j8ui.jpg.html)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 14, 2015, 01:56:37 PM
I really could throw this ipad sometimes, the "copy" icon just flashes on briefly, like half a second or less, impossible to click on.
One less picture to share.
On the handbrake thing, it would be good to hide it away somewhere, but id like to use the trike before the winter gets here, so it will have to wait.
Got to finish welding and fix the rack next, then paint!


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 27, 2015, 09:34:13 PM
Bit of an update, spent some time fitting the rear muddies, damn it takes forever. Had to push the trike outside today to get a decent perspective - sort of stand back to eye it up. So i fitted both, eventually. Then bolted up the rear bumper bar and tack welded up the triangulation bars up to the rear section. The horizontal luggage bars (12mm stainless) were added, and i stood back to admire....
It looked a bit like an accident on a building site, bars everywhere. The axle torque bar needs to come out, that might improve things, it can go underneath. I may have to replace the original frosted aluminium diff cover to see if that cleans it up, we'll see. The problem is i want the capability to carry luggage, or at least a large kitbag, and i dont want to fit a box, so i'll have to persevere.



Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: stinkey on August 27, 2015, 11:05:49 PM
I don't use the copy ( don't know how ?) on my iPad.me and technology don't gel very well...but my mudguards only took a little time ?  ::). So I feel your pain one way or another ..keep going with it..


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: andyrennison on August 27, 2015, 11:06:17 PM
Yup.  The little things take a long time


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: stinkey on August 27, 2015, 11:11:05 PM
Try fitting hundreds of holes ? :-\


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 28, 2015, 11:23:41 AM
Iguess fitting holes is easy, making it look good is the difficult bit.
Will have a look at it later, take that reaction bar out, maybe fade in some matt black underneath to make the stainless stand out.
My problem is i struggle with visualising stuff - apparently there is a term for it, it means its built before i know what it'll look like. Poo.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: stinkey on August 28, 2015, 12:35:12 PM
I tend to stand back and look at a project for ages..lots of mocking up..then go for it..but generally I find bikes/hotrods prefer to grow organically ?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on September 05, 2015, 07:27:19 PM
Done a bit more, the toque reaction bar has bit the dust, wiil have to refit one low down. The rack and muddy mountings have been redone, i think it does look better, but the remaining fly  in the ointment is (are) the supports from the rear bumper to the muddy brackets, in trying to tidy up the axle attachments i moved them to the same place as the verticals, now they're not parallel to the muddys, so will need to chop the other ends and reposition.
Function and form, i guess you need both...


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on September 11, 2015, 08:16:06 PM
Yes its getting closer, some more work required to get them lined up, with radiussed bar ends and parallel to the muddies.
I wont be posting another pic until its painted, saex has made me jealous, but i might stillbore you a bit more before then.
Hopefully not longthough


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: saex69 on September 13, 2015, 09:40:51 PM
Coming on great not long before you're on the road.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on September 14, 2015, 09:24:57 PM
Did a bit more today, remade the muddy support bars, made some radiused ends to close them off. They now run parallel to the wheels so look much better from behind, however, noticed tonight that they dont follow the line of the wheels. Also, one is further back than the other...
Thats what happens when you try tokeep as much original as possible i guess - that's how its staying for now, i'll call it character.
Also remade the handbrake mount to sit below the footplate, not finished yet, but its looking better all the time. Some cable loops for the rear lights loom tomorrow and we'll be close to paint :)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on December 30, 2015, 01:56:51 PM
Pics of the seat, cissy bar, and pad. needs a cushion and cover.
(http://)
Bah, failed to copy the blinkin url again.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on May 27, 2016, 10:39:45 PM
Bit of a non-pictorial update, primered the frame, 2 pack filler primer over etch. Need to hoist it up so i can be sure I haven't missed anything underneath.
Metallic purple week after next, when me and her indoors get back from North Wales tour in the camper.
Pics once its in colour, promise


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on May 27, 2016, 10:41:53 PM
Cadbury's purple?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on May 28, 2016, 04:43:20 PM
Not sure if its exactly, but similar shade


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on June 08, 2016, 10:43:43 PM
Some more progress, made 7 disc bobbins from stainless, need to machine some reliefs into the adapter, add some holes then swage it all together. Bought some new pads, which line up exactly with the disc face width.
Need to make a calliper spacer and hopefully will have a front brake - halleluia.
Rubbed down some primer, bought some black 2 pack for the bits inside and underneath the frame, can't wait to get it on the road.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on June 19, 2016, 10:54:36 AM
Its purple, or is it blue?
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg1_zpsg5y0oaro.jpg)][U
 (http://[URL=http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image.jpg1_zpsg5y0oaro.jpg.html)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on June 19, 2016, 11:05:33 AM
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg2_zpscchpl89o.jpg)]


 (http://[URL=http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image.jpg2_zpscchpl89o.jpg.html)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on June 19, 2016, 11:09:55 AM
Now to start the rebuild. I fancy blasting and painting the rocker cover the same colour - what do you think?
The front forks have to come apart, the disc adapters need finishing, and the calliper mounting needs making.
Plenty to do still.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on June 19, 2016, 11:14:40 AM
Yeah, colour matching the engine to the frame would be nice.

Reminds me of the blue on my first ever trike. It was powder-coated in Arga cooker blue with a black frame.
I was at the coaters, collecting bike parts, last week & Craig the owner said Have a look at this -he dragged a wrought iron garden bench over to me. Recognise the colour? It's the blue we did your first trike in. The box of powder's been sat on the shelf ever since.  ;D


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on June 19, 2016, 12:58:45 PM
My "first ever trike" hmm, well this one is a rehash of a good/bad creation. I hope I've kept the good bits (original bike frame front end, front wheel, forks, metalflaked tank, sidecovers, mudguards and lamp housing), other than that its all new.
So will I build a new, or my first? Yes I think so, I have a jig/frame a power unit (xj650 turbo) and some ideas, so it will be on. If I get that far, a v6 compact 2 seater is next up in my head, but who knows?
One step at a time...


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on June 19, 2016, 08:30:43 PM
 ;D


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on June 19, 2016, 09:33:50 PM
I'm almost getting excited....
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg1_zpsasykkvks.jpg)]

Anyone know why I get two identical pics? (http://[URL=http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image.jpg1_zpsasykkvks.jpg.html)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on June 19, 2016, 09:47:14 PM
Erm, nope.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: BikerGran on June 21, 2016, 01:23:48 PM
I'm almost getting excited....
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg1_zpsasykkvks.jpg)]

Anyone know why I get two identical pics?
 (http://[URL=http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image.jpg1_zpsasykkvks.jpg.html)

Shoulda gone to Specsavers?  I can only see one pic!


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on June 21, 2016, 04:30:44 PM
Yeh well I go back and edit the post and delete the duplicate, no idea why i copy and paste, and two appear.
Perhaps to be sure...


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: BikerGran on June 21, 2016, 08:00:21 PM
To be sure, to be sure............


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Olds on June 21, 2016, 09:32:06 PM
 ;D ;D ;D



 ;D ;D ;D


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on June 24, 2016, 10:46:47 PM
Battery box and battery fitted, made sense of the wiring, cleaned the fuse-holder and changed the m6 stainless bolt-fuse (no kidding). My haynes manual is useless at identifying which fuse does what, so i noted the colours from behind the holder, will try to decipher which does what tomorrow, and what rating it should have.
Forks, front wheel and disc tomorrow hopefully, then make the calliper mount.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on June 26, 2016, 10:19:19 PM
More work on the wiring, horn relocated under the seat, wouldnt work, looks like the switch needs stripping.
Fitted the ignition switch to the inside of the side panel, pulled all the multiplugs, cleaned and lubed the pins.
I will need to get on with the disc and calliper tomorrow - off work on hols 8)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on June 28, 2016, 07:44:08 AM
Getting there Mr Mutt.  ;)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on June 28, 2016, 11:52:57 AM
Thanks, ticking the jobs off slowly.
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg1_zpsukrucyra.jpg) (http://[URL=http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image.jpg1_zpsukrucyra.jpg.html)[/url]
This is my yam wheel fitted with the vn1500 front disc supplied by Stix (big thankyou). The adaptor was supplied by a kitcar specialist to my drawing, I did the extended holes (slots) in the miller,finished the half holes to line up with the disc by hand, and made 7 new bobbins and washers.
To swage it all together i used a coil spring to compress the belville washers with a ball bearing inside it. One at a time, 500 odd kilos in my press, and hey presto, worked better than I expected.
Edited this one and the next to remove two pics, hopefully.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on June 28, 2016, 11:55:50 AM
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg2_zps33lmwp5h.jpg) (http://[URL=http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image.jpg2_zps33lmwp5h.jpg.html)[/url]
Cutting the slots last night.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on June 28, 2016, 07:42:19 PM
Nice work Sir.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on June 30, 2016, 03:30:27 PM
Got a bit more done, machined a lump of aluminium flat and parallel, and drilled to suit the calliper mounts. I've started Assembling it all together to mark out the extra tapped holes, Having the wheel, axle bolt and fork tube on the bench is a lot easier than doing it on the trike I have to say!
Play stopped for a week, wife dragged me off to Cyprus,
Calispera all.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on July 08, 2016, 09:58:32 PM
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg1_zps5eeiu04k.jpg)]

Here it is fitted:-
[url=http://[URL=http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image.jpg2_zpsaxo7slct.jpg.html](http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg2_zpsaxo7slct.jpg)]

 (http://[URL=http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image.jpg1_zps5eeiu04k.jpg.html)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on July 08, 2016, 10:14:35 PM
Well that seems to work.  :)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Mendalot on July 09, 2016, 09:50:46 AM
Nice to see this sort of engineering, looks great. Very envious of your milling machine sir ;)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on July 09, 2016, 01:10:48 PM
Thanks mendalot, need to make some more tooling for the rotating table, as well as playing a bit more with it. Even for machining the disc adaptor I had to make 4 tee nuts, which all takes time.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on July 09, 2016, 08:27:14 PM
Had to fit the headers and tank to plan the routes for the oil cooler pipes, so here are some pics of the "back together more than its been for two years" trike

(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg4_zpsath6rl3g.jpg)]

The front view:
[url=http://[URL=http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image.jpg3_zps4szxh05t.jpg.html](http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg3_zps4szxh05t.jpg)]

Side view of the 70s metalflaked tank, i know its old hat but its the best part of the original trike, and I like it:-
[url=http://[URL=http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image.jpg5_zpsigopgahm.jpg.html](http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg5_zpsigopgahm.jpg)]
The tank will have to come off to set up the carbs obviously, but I forgot to order the copper header seals, so they'll have to as well. I plan to run some 10mm copper pipe for the cooler, paint it black. Also the cooler itself. (http://[URL=http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image.jpg4_zpsath6rl3g.jpg.html)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on July 09, 2016, 08:42:34 PM
One of the tank:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg2_zpsfh8xcead.jpg)]

The original brake pedal and exhaust, i noticed the pedal itself doesnt have much of a radius on it, I guess this will be an msva issue later on?
[url=http://[URL=http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image.jpg3_zpstims2gwh.jpg.html](http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg3_zpstims2gwh.jpg)] (http://[URL=http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image.jpg2_zpsfh8xcead.jpg.html)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on July 14, 2016, 10:33:46 PM
i've formed the feed and return oil cooler pipes, need to add some brackets and tidy up the stainless overbraid on the short bits of flexible either ends.
I polished the original bits of paintwork (tank and sidepanels), the wife reckons I should have left the frame black... I think she's right too. Bugger.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: twisted on July 19, 2016, 04:21:52 PM
re the msva you should be ok. test is done with you sat on the trike. so put your feet to the outside of your peddles get your knees and elbows out. ;) if the rollers touch you thats ok and they move on.
looking good  ;D


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 05, 2016, 10:48:42 PM
Not much progress recently, been busy with son's rover 25, now the camper needs welding for it's mot, and I need it next week for the madness concert.
I have nearly finished the oil cooler lines though, much neater than the braided flexibles that were on it.
Pics when I get a chance.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 11, 2016, 08:11:36 PM
Quick update, working on the pitted and leaking forks. It seems likely the stanchions are yamaha, maybe xv, they're 36 by 706 as close as I can measure. Anyone got a set in good enough nick?
There are others that might fit - xt350, kawasaki  klr250. Essentially though, it seems theres no way to be certain, but it would be nice to replace them with an identical pair, so that the damper rods dont need any faffing about.
Damn I could do with bolting this front end back together...


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on August 11, 2016, 08:30:54 PM
Love working on projects, don't you?!


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 11, 2016, 11:35:01 PM
Yeah, like a hole in the head sometimes.
I took the left hand bar switch apart tonight to fix the horn switch. I couldn't believe it, there was a solenoid in there! It seems some us models had a turn switch cancelling module, which I can't seem to find. I might see if a timer will work to trigger the solenoid, but right now, it can wait. And the horn switch? Had to strip it, dropped one of the miniature rocker balls, so hands and knees time tomorrow night, if i can find the ball I have a fighting chance to get it all back together.
Yes andy, love it..


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Olds on August 12, 2016, 07:58:18 AM
When I pulled mine apart it was a tiny spring that disappeared. :(
Probably quicker to buy new ball bearings off ebay than find it in the garage. Usually come in packs of 10 so you can lose 9 while trying to assemble it. :D


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 13, 2016, 05:53:35 PM
Well the switch is back together, but the self cancelling solenoid doesnt seem to work :-[
Anyway, I have a bigger problem, after hours of trying various ways of rescuing my front forks I've decided they're scrap.  I have an issue though, they are well and truly tight in the yokes. I have slab yokes with a hex bolt in each, which I guess has part of its thread in the stanchion - there isn't a slot to be clamped up anywhere. I have removed the bolts, but i can't get a hint of movement. Anyone have any ideas on how to remove these? It looks like I'll need to make a tool to adapt my puller onto the job, maybe two, one for the top yoke, one for the bottom one?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: the coppersmith on August 14, 2016, 09:46:19 AM
Are they alloy yokes and steel tube?? if so rapid heat on the alloy and wet rag wrapped around tube. Different rates of expansion etc.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 14, 2016, 10:37:13 AM
I've tried that, nothing moved, however I didn't have a puller on it. Looks like I'll have to make an adaptor up, and maybe take the forks off the frame. might as well, I've stripped everything else on this trike. Hoorors at every step.
Having said that, I haven't stripped the engine - yet....


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 14, 2016, 11:13:06 PM
Bought a pair of xt350 yam forks on ebag buy it now, with a fair bit of luck they might be similar to what i have.
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg1_zpsvn4uo1fe.jpg)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 24, 2016, 11:40:13 PM
These are the yokes folkes
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg1_zpsq4qj51bm.jpg)
Stripped down the yam xt350 forks I bought
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg2_zpsvhgseztj.jpg)

Found this:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg3_zpsctpvmiva.jpg)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: stinkey on August 25, 2016, 06:02:10 AM
Has that got a crack or been welded ?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 25, 2016, 03:58:34 PM
It has been welded, and has a crack, pretty much like everything else done on this, except, it has to be said, the slab yokes which look very good (but I haven't removed the stanchions yet though)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 26, 2016, 12:05:55 PM
Removed the stanchions last night, they were held in by a pair of taper collets, the inner has an m8 thread, the outer a 3/8 unf. So as you tighten the bolt it pulls them both together, magic.
First thing on this trike that has impressed me.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 29, 2016, 07:30:52 PM
Wasn't happy with the kwak spring on the yam damper rod seating, since the yam tube is a mm and a bit bigger, hence the spring can move around a bit. So I knocked up a pair of seats:-

(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg1_zps960yao5a.jpg)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 29, 2016, 07:35:33 PM
Sorry about the crap out of focus pic. Not done much today as yet, hung over from a committee day out at Aberaeron 7s yesterday, and the grandkids are here again this afternoon. Now it's quiet I'm off out to assemble the forks, fingers crossed it'll be back on its wheel later tonight.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on August 29, 2016, 08:13:52 PM
You've been a lot busier than me this Bank Holiday!


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: stinkey on August 30, 2016, 08:24:27 AM
All that walking the streets morning and at night must take it out of you Andy ? ::)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on August 30, 2016, 03:28:52 PM
Permanently knackered -like most people here.  :P


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: stinkey on August 30, 2016, 09:55:51 PM
Me knackered ? Never ! ::)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on September 01, 2016, 12:00:04 AM
I fitted both stanchions easterday, filled with oil. Height and damping seems fine, but the springs rattle as they compres, looking at fitting some sleeves if it annoys me on the road.
And yes Andy, I think your nuts to push a bike 2 miles, but then where I live 2 miles equals 4 hills...


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on September 13, 2016, 04:39:08 PM
She runs! Sounds good too, although the carbs are peeing fuel like its going out of fashion.
I've tweaked the bars, fitted the front wheel, bled the brakes and back, now to do some wiring. I think all the switches are now working, question mark over the hazzards. Since the rear lamps are led, and the front are bulbs, i've bought a pair of resistors for the rears.
Tonight I'll have to remove the carbs and track down the source of the flooding. Oh and the exhaust and the lambda are fouling the oil cooler feed.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on September 13, 2016, 08:37:37 PM
Cool! Progress -we like progress.  :)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on September 22, 2016, 10:36:30 PM
Been getting on with the back bumper/rack/mudguard mounts:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg4_zpssdzjt5dc.jpg)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on September 22, 2016, 10:38:27 PM
Ran out of gas just as I was getting into the swing of things poo.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on September 22, 2016, 10:47:32 PM
Here's a shot of the bars, they might need to be pulled up just a bit more. Theyre certainly much better than they were:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg1_zpsnqj2demc.jpg)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on September 23, 2016, 04:13:51 PM
Some nice shapes going on in that back end mate.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on September 23, 2016, 07:31:02 PM
I started off trying to keep as much original as I could, the problem with this though is that somewhere stainless meets paint. Long term I need something better, I'm just not sure what yet. And the number plate holder is too big - kind of in your face? Perhaps a solid rear bumper with the plate just behind the seat would have been neater..


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Olds on September 23, 2016, 08:01:33 PM
Nice progress.
Tend to agree about the number plate mount. Very neat but perhaps looks a little heavy. Might look lighter if the surround was relieved towards the bottom so that it looked more like a headlamp  peak. :-\


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on September 23, 2016, 10:28:54 PM
Agree Olds, in fact I did just that, but perhaps not enough. I'll have a lng hard look once its outside, when I can walk all around it.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on September 26, 2016, 10:03:11 PM
I've pulled!
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg1_zpsryktjw4w.jpg)

Don't know if applying my propane torch and long pipe to this will sort it, any thoughts?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on September 28, 2016, 08:36:25 PM
Well  I sorted the plate mount. I cut 25mm out of the bottom, rewelded the surround back in. Kiss goodby to 2 nights, but it has made a big difference I think.
Pics later. I still need to think about sorting the pulled pipe where they're welded.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on September 28, 2016, 08:52:29 PM
Worth the effort though if you're happier with it. Sometimes the little details make all the difference.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on October 10, 2016, 05:42:27 PM
Well the back bumper (stainless pipe), had the propane torch, body jack and long pipe with me pulling on the end of it. It's not perfect, but it's a lot closer to it.
What do I use to remove the tarnishing off the stainless? I seem to remember the welders using some pickling acid or something similar when I was in the dairies, but that was a long time ago.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Olds on October 10, 2016, 08:34:51 PM
Paste made of baking soda then rinse off with clean water, or solvo autosol and elbow grease.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on October 10, 2016, 10:24:19 PM
Thanks Olds, I'll try the baking soda first. Never tried Autosol, so perhaps it's time.
Tonight I needed to make up some ends for the 1 1/4 bumper tubes, had a look around, thought about alli, decided against it due to galvanic corrosion. Then I thought about stainless valves, not long after i had dug out a pair of stainless pinto exhaust valves. I cut the stem off one, turned it upside down and welded the stem to the front of the valve. It's now in my lathe ready for machining into a nice curvy shape, with a 5mm radius, veed out to allow for tig welding to the tube end. That will be one of them at least.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on October 16, 2016, 10:56:26 PM
Made and fitted the domed end caps, will hopefully look ok with some flapwheel action around the outside. I've been pondering the wiring/harness mounting. I didn't want to use cable ties, so thought of welding some stainless welding rods at equal distances, coiled up so the harness could run along them. The problem with this is that it makes polishing the heat tarnish out difficult, so, i've decided to use stainless bandit ties, with another loop tied under the main one. I do think this will work, and it means i can bolt up and polish everything after running the cables.
I've been sorting out the wiring to the back lights, and since they're led, i bought a pair of resistors for the indicators. However, now i think I'll have to change the fronts for leds as well, since the flash is a touch quick - bugger. Hazard switch and brake switches both playing up, but come on they are 33 years old...
Also been looking through the msva manual - a bit confused at referances to being readable to the max design speed of the vehicle - who the heck is going to determine that? Currently running a bike speedo, so it would need illuminating and labelling at least. Something tells me the tyres also have this speed issue. And on the subject of tyres - if labelled for rear wheel use, they must be fitted to the rear - thats me stuffed then.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Olds on October 17, 2016, 04:09:26 PM
Regarding the design speed of the vehicle, You can state your own design speed as long as it's not silly. For Deliverance I think I put it down as 70 MPH which was below the stated top speed of a Rialto 850. Take the bikes top speed and knock a chunk off for the extra weight and another chunk off, for the poor aerodynamics.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on October 22, 2016, 10:42:49 PM
Thanks Olds, anyone have any suggestions re the tyre marking on the front?
In the meantime I've been getting on with some wiring, checking idiot light colours and operation etc. my indicators and hazards ale orange led, high beam is blue, neutral is a flashing green! There is also a spare, not connected - anyone want to suggest uses?
Started on the prop rebuild, (i cocked up the phasing, and didnt install a sliding joint) - and yes it is a hard tail but the engine is on rubbers and i expect even after all my hard work on stiffening, there will still be some flexing. So I was going to use a cooper 's' hs coupling, at least untill I had a long look at both. The reliant drive flange is bigger, so I had to create a basterdised coupling.
Tomorrow I'll shorten the tube, make an adaptor to the mini shaft , clock it up and hopefully weld it.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Olds on October 23, 2016, 09:08:18 AM
As for the tyre, get one that doesn't say rear fitment only. Sorry.



Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on October 23, 2016, 11:32:20 AM
Sounds simple, but it isn't. The wheel is a yam r1 rear, and while I haven't looked yet, I would be suprised if There is a front tyre that'll fit. There may be a rear that isnt marked up as rear only though - anyone know?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on October 23, 2016, 05:53:13 PM
When I was building Tazet's trike, (any one know where that is now?), I used a Yamaha V Max rear wheel in the front. I know it wasn't marked either front or back, but can't remember the make. Any tyre officianados recognise the tread pattern?
So... purely hyperthetically obviously, what if you were to sand the lettering off the tyre?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on October 23, 2016, 05:55:37 PM
Her tractor trike. It was going to be Massey Ferguson Grey themed. I'd almost forgotten this one.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: the coppersmith on October 23, 2016, 07:32:05 PM
did you make the girders/springers Andy??


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on October 23, 2016, 08:02:25 PM
No, they were built for us by Mick, ("FLC"), from Rotherham.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on October 23, 2016, 09:55:22 PM
That was just what I was going to ask, good looking set.
Hypothetically one could try to circumvent the testers beady eye - you might ask whats the problem in running the rear tyre on the front? None that I can see. And it would seem mot testers aren't so fussy about it, once the msva is in the bag, since the machine has had numerous mots since being bodged - oops I mean converted.
We'll see, not looked hard yet.
Tonight I made up the new propshaft, rialto (thin) tube, with an adaptor to the kawasaki front, a further adaptor turned up to suit a mini sliding joint and HS joint, with a cut down mini inner valve spring inserted. It now holds itself in place quite nicely, but i've still to make a retaining pin. I did wonder why I didn't cut the whole thing up and make a new one out of a solid mini shaft, but that would have meant a right faff to get the kawa end out of the previously made prop. One day perhaps, if i come across an original kawasaki front joint.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on October 24, 2016, 06:38:29 PM
Let's 'ave a look at it then.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on October 24, 2016, 10:40:15 PM
Lol, sorry, just come in after some polishing of the stainless bumper, along with the one end cap - looks OK for an old pinto valve. sorry, didn't take any pics. I'll take a couple tomorrow.
It's all very well recycling some ancient stainless, until you start polishing it and realise how badly marked it is. (The tube came from some scrap back in my dairy days, were used as table legs in our bedgord cf camper, at least 30 years ago. There's something satisfying about it though?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on October 26, 2016, 06:38:08 PM
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg1_zpsiyigqnyn.jpg) the propshaft, mk2. There might be a mk3 if I can be bothered.
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image.jpg2_zpsmcoqt1sh.jpg) and here is the end of the rear bumper, would you believe a stainless Ford Pinto exhaust valve?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on October 26, 2016, 06:43:11 PM
Hopefully tonight will get to forming the radius and polishing up the other end. Need to order some sheathing to run the rear lights in, found some 3mm and 6mm in carbuildersolutions. Then make up a torque reaction bar for the diff. Slow progress at the moment, shame with the weather being so nice.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on October 26, 2016, 08:13:28 PM
You've been a busy bunny.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on October 31, 2016, 09:30:12 PM
Not a very busy bunny this weekend, Abergavenny with the rugby on Sat, not much shape yesterday, grandkids, trick or treat etc tonight. Hopefully get back to it tomorrow night.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on November 05, 2016, 10:18:16 PM
Prop fitted, back end polishing not quite finished, I spun up the rear wheels tonight to check various bits'n pieces and found my back wheels are buckled, bent and the tyres are flat spotted.
Looks like I need to take them off to correct as best I can. Poo


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Olds on November 06, 2016, 08:45:54 AM
Are you sure it's the wheels and not how they are mounted or the hubs not being true. As for the tyres,  they may just need warming up. Pump them up to the max pressure and leave them in a warm room (or cupboard with a fan heater). It's a good idea to check how old they are. Tyre wear on the back of a trike is minimal and they may be well out of date before they wear out.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on November 06, 2016, 09:34:02 AM
Yup, I've had the "buckled wheel" problem before & as Dave says, turned out to be just that the wheel wasn't sitting flat against the hub. A thin shim fixed it. Your local tyre depot can spin them on their balancing machine & tell you for certain.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on November 06, 2016, 10:19:10 AM
Are you sure it's the wheels and not how they are mounted or the hubs not being true. As for the tyres,  they may just need warming up. Pump them up to the max pressure and leave them in a warm room (or cupboard with a fan heater). It's a good idea to check how old they are. Tyre wear on the back of a trike is minimal and they may be well out of date before they wear out.
Good suggestions, but it didn't take a genius to try another wheel (actually took two to find a perfect one) without tyres to check the hubs were spot on. And yes one, probably both tyres are flat bottomed, they were bought new just over a year ago but the trike has been sat on them, I'll take your advise on that olds.
The "skewed" wheel can be corrected by machining the mounting flange, probably in my miller, the bent inside of the other one is potentially more serious, but i'll tackle that one first, just in case it has to go in the bin...


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on November 08, 2016, 06:26:34 PM
I have drawn up a "wheel corrector" if my sketching was anything like Mr Olds I would take a pic and load it. Anyway the contraption is essentially a scaffold tube with a rear hub spigot welded on, with a hole bored at 90 degrees to allow a threaded rod of substantial proportions to be used to push out against the inside of the wheel. It even allows for an opposite side tube and nut to stabilize the wheel if needed.
The question is though, what sort of heat, if any should be used to aid this correction? I realise this is dicing with death in a way, but cast aluminium generally shows its displeasure clearly if pushed too hard, anfd these are scrap anyway if I dont improve them.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on November 18, 2016, 11:05:43 PM
Wheels left for now, been getting on with wiring rear lights, found another bodge with the ignition switch - I couldnt get anything on "park". It turned out a british ignition switch had been fitted, which doesnt work on an American bike. Also found, eventually the live feed had been connected to one of the outputs, now all good except i have to have hazards and indicators available all the time.
One question, will I need a fog light for msva?
Thanks,
Huw
Had a look at the sticky in this section, good info. It seems my lack of sidelight in the headlamp isnt an issue, i dont need a foglight, and the hazards will be fine. I have fitted a high level brake lightnot sure if this is a issue.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on December 29, 2016, 11:23:44 AM
Not been much progress recently, however yesterday I made these:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image_zpsj3s2epoy.jpg)
Now fitted to the open rack end tubes, blasted the mountings and put some primer on, will be black by end of today hopefully. Trike slept outside last night for the first time, hope its not too upset..
Oh, blwyddyn newydd dda (happy new year to you all).
Huw


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on December 29, 2016, 02:19:32 PM
Them's nice.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: stinkey on December 29, 2016, 06:26:05 PM
Not been much progress recently, however yesterday I made these:
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image_zpsj3s2epoy.jpg)
Now fitted to the open rack end tubes, blasted the mountings and put some primer on, will be black by end of today hopefully. Trike slept outside last night for the first time, hope its not too upset..
Oh, blwyddyn newydd dda (happy new year to you all).
Huw
Shiny holes ..cool ;D


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on December 29, 2016, 09:24:48 PM
I did toy with bacdrilling them for lightness, but it would have likely marked the outside.I guess if I'd made a holder for them so I could produce the radius last, and made them the other way it would have worked, but anyway its not the end of the world.
2 coats of gloss black 2pack on the mudguard brackets today, looks OK. Need to make a torque reaction bracket tomorrow and tlhenassemble everything, and if the weathers nice take it for a test drive. Only 3 years  since I started :)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on December 30, 2016, 11:53:27 AM
Woo hoo! Very nearly there! :)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: stinkey on December 30, 2016, 05:13:30 PM
3 years ? That's nothing 8)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on December 30, 2016, 09:27:10 PM
Tis true. I've had my bike for nearly 7 years now & my truck for getting on for 10 & neither's finished yet.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on January 07, 2017, 10:13:16 PM
Paste made of baking soda then rinse off with clean water, or solvo autosol and elbow grease.
Been polishing some bits and pieces ( stainless on the back end and engine side casings) with autosol - i must say I'm very impressed with it, especially when used with my grinder and felt flapwheel.
Dave, not seen anything of you on here recently - thanks for the tip and hope your Ok health wise?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on February 05, 2017, 11:39:22 PM
This autosol solvol should come with a warning about addiction - once you've done one bit you can't stop...
Anyway, i have a quandary  - since building up the front end and static testing the front brake, (by holding on the lever and pushing on the bars), I've noticed a distinct clonk.
some of it comes from the pad, some from the disc to centre bit, but the biggest by far comes from the shock tube bottom bearing. This is probably amplified by the bigger disc and calliper positioned further up the tube. Sods law really.
Anyway,  some thinking has lead me to the unmistakable conclusion that the tube is worn (it is 23 years old). I thought about shimming under the bearing, but I guess this will mean it'll be tight at the top and bottom. My question is do I need to do anything about this?
I have found one on ebay that looks a match, albeit painted black, and its £80 with the postage - I guess I know the answer...


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on February 08, 2017, 11:08:56 PM
Bought it...


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on February 09, 2017, 07:12:47 PM
You know it makes sense.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on March 02, 2017, 07:12:37 PM
Well I'm as happy as a dog with two youknowhats - just taken the trike out for a pre mot shakedown, and nothing fell off, it handles much better than it used too(but you can feel its shorter), there is no low speed shake unless you let go the bars, and the engine nearly spot on.
I say nearly because there is a low speed high load missfire that feels like its over rich but thats a guess. Also I need to improve my up change technique since I noticed once or twice the dogs rattling before going in. On the downside the indicators and hazards have died, so have the brake lights :-[
One thing to note, I have front and rear brakes that work well, both now bedded in and working well. So its fix the lights, swap the front leg and paint them both, then mot time - just right for spring  :)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on March 02, 2017, 08:52:46 PM
Oops, Just checked the wiring diagram and my notes, I'de put in a link across the bit of the ignition switch that wasn't there, I did see a link when I put the headlamp back in, but forgot what it was for! Idiot.
Tomorrow night will put it back in permanently and test it.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: BikerGran on March 02, 2017, 09:09:40 PM
Sounds excellent!

 :) :)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on March 03, 2017, 05:38:38 PM
Excellent and timely, spring is nearly upon us (or just around the corner as someone just posted), and I've gone and bought a bmw 318ti and entered a road rally...
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image_zpsweucucm5.jpg)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on March 03, 2017, 08:11:01 PM
 ;D


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: scannerzer on March 03, 2017, 08:35:35 PM
entered a road rally...




oh do tell,DR BIG750 and I used to be quite good at those. i look foward to hearing about this


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on March 10, 2017, 05:19:43 PM
It's a plot and bash navigation rally, 70 odd cars, starts around 11pm. Google tvmc rally bro preseli.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: scannerzer on March 10, 2017, 09:19:27 PM
Brings back memories,good luck and let us know how you get on


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on March 19, 2017, 10:20:55 PM
I Needed to sort the lights out before mot (the brake lights were on all the time and the indicators didn't work).
The indicators (and hazards) i knew were down to a link needed to replace a bit of the ignition switch missing due to a yank bike being fitted with a uk ignition switch, but the brake lights were making me wonder..
The link for the indicators I put in inside and behind the fuse "box", checked it didn't backfeed and cause any other issues. The brake lights turned out to be nothing more than the footpeg turned on its mounting, stopping the pedal coming up. A small step closer anyway.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: BikerGran on March 19, 2017, 11:09:45 PM
Amazing how often that sort of thing happens - you have a problem you think is going to be right barsteward to sort out, and when you steel yourself to tackle it - Wow, that was easy!

On the other hand, when you think 'I'll just sort that (whatever) before I pack up' - and three hours later you give up in disgust and decide it'll be better to sort it tomorrow...

 ;D ;D


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on April 17, 2017, 07:32:44 AM
Brings back memories,good luck and let us know how you get on

I didn't, couldn't find the time to get the engine back together. Spent all night doing a time control down on the coast by Newgale, between St Davids and haverfordwest. Even  managed to book in the police before looking up to see who they were! No car number so I just put COPS on my checksheet.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: scannerzer on April 17, 2017, 08:35:23 AM
that bit brings back memories too.lol the cops never had that before


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on April 20, 2017, 04:33:01 PM
Trike MOTd today  ;D,  also went to get it wighed, for some reason it was 540 kilos on the v5 !
Now, if I want to tax it today, can I? And then change its weight later and get a refund? Or should I wait? Trouble is I want to use it next week...


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on April 20, 2017, 04:33:58 PM
Should have said - got a weight ticket at 280kilos


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on April 23, 2017, 12:25:39 AM
Some observations after putting some miles on it today:
Its still blinkin' cold, even with a couple of layers and a decent jacket I'm feeling it. Vibration white finger after 25 miles today, the cold brings it on, need better gloves, or harden up..
The front end is noisy- it has a plastic mudguard, and anything but the smoothest tarmac brings a rumble/hum from it. At least I think its the mudguard? Any one have experience of this?
Still having to think what I'm doing - this thing takes some hanging on to when pressing on -  the national speed limit feels fast enough to me.
The front brake is excellent - thanks stix! The rears lack feel, and if you press too hard they lock up - quietly!
Still grinning, and getting lots of waves :)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on April 23, 2017, 09:20:44 AM
It's the cold that'll limit my range when I finally get my bike on the road. I've always been freezing on bikes, since I was a teenager. O.K while I'm actually riding, but as soon as I stop I'm shivering with cold. Clothing's got much better since then though with modern fabrics & stuff specifically designed for outdoor use. Some modern lightweight thermal gear will help a lot.
I found my trikes always felt like they were going faster than they actually were, but meant I could have just as much fun as faster machines without worrying about getting caught for speeding :)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on April 29, 2017, 06:08:17 PM
Entered the local Cardigan Barley Saturday parade today, but before i went a quick check over made me want to look closer at the prop. I noticed the power unit end was quite slack, slack enough to allow the UJ to slop around. Now I had modified this from original by fitting a sliding joint at the back, and thought I'd fitted a coil spring inside to hold some tension on it - well anyway, no spring in sight.
So off came the axle torque reaction bar, remove prop, cut down an old inner valve spring and re-assembe everything. Now it holds nice and tight against the engine, on top of that, the vibration I was getting at speed has dissapeared - so it was propshaft related as I thought. All in all a result. Had a good day, put some more miles on the trike, and getting better at riding it, I think.
Next up is to try to sort out the rich mixture on load and the rumbly front mudguard, both of which will make it a lot more civilised.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: the coppersmith on April 29, 2017, 07:42:23 PM
sounds like a good result with the prop. I have a sliding prop and have a shaky bit, may look at that soon, thanks for the idea.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on April 29, 2017, 07:46:11 PM
I usually find the niggly fault diagnosis stage takes longer than the original build!
Any photos of you parading on it?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on April 29, 2017, 08:15:25 PM
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image_zpsn5llqjph.jpg)][URL=http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image_zpsn5llqjph.jpg.html](http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image_zpsn5llqjph.jpg) (http://[URL=http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image_zpsn5llqjph.jpg.html)[/url]
(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image_zpskslclvcx.jpg)][URL=http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image_zpskslclvcx.jpg.html](http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image_zpskslclvcx.jpg) (http://[URL=http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image_zpskslclvcx.jpg.html)[/url]

(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h232/carreglasinimutly/image_zpsxstu9wv4.jpg) (http://s65.photobucket.com/user/carreglasinimutly/media/image_zpsxstu9wv4.jpg.html)[/url]


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on April 29, 2017, 08:22:35 PM
Still don't know why it doubles up, i'll remove them


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on April 29, 2017, 08:49:13 PM
Ooh, look at that! Very nice.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on November 15, 2017, 10:45:01 PM
Idle moment in a pub in Ludlow...
After the first summers riding a little update:-
The mixture issue has been improved by dropping the float levels, but I think I overdid it, they are a touch on the low side, and It doesn't start as well, and occasionally misfires until really hot. I thought I was clever by measuring all the levels with a tube, then adjusting all the floats to the same level as the "correct" one with a vernier. Well that didn't work, so in the end I had them set up on the bench fed from my remote bottle/tank. Must try harder.
Reliability wise it has been perfect, handling wise I need to sort out the back wheels to see if the speedwobble is solved, i have bought a chinese speedo/idiot light jobby, so plan on msva before next year. I really need a better headlight though, and some mudguard lights, would like some LEDs, so any thoughts appreciated.
The original front tyre is worn out and showing some cracks, so I will source something a little narrower for the R1 rear wheel if I can, if it still wobbles its head I'll be fitting a damper.
All in all a fair result, but it will be for sale so I can have something with rear suspension, the roads around me and my age don't go together.
Ps, it's 4, yes 4 years since I first posted on here, where the heck did that go then?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on November 16, 2017, 09:09:03 AM
4 years?! My truck project's been off the road that long, so while you've sent enjoying yours, I've been staring at a pile of parts.
Always great to get updates on builds. Sometimes we follow them here for ages, then they just disappear. Sounds like you've got yours pretty well sorted. I've never built anything yet that hasn't needed modification once it's roadworthy. I'll be interested to see what you need to change for the MSVA as I'll put my hardtail bike through it eventually.
Can we see an updated photo?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: stinkey on November 16, 2017, 03:38:16 PM
only 4 years ?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: paulywombats on November 17, 2017, 05:54:14 AM
I got these LED rear cluster with reflectors off Evilbay.

Made by Maypole good quality and 'E' marked. They can be surface mounted or inset.

Item number is 321559851843.

£24.99 delivered

There is a good selection on www.carbuildersolutions.com, they are a bit more expensive and charge for delivery, but a good reference point.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on November 17, 2017, 07:15:17 PM
Yeh, mine were from carbuilder, £70 odd quid if I recall, they look better, but is that worth double the price?
YPYMATYC


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on December 23, 2017, 01:57:05 PM
Bought a new Avon rear tyre for the front yesterday, 170 wide instead of 180, could have gone narrower I reckon. Interestingly the (very experienced) owner of the bike bits online shop (Brooks barn) said it should be fitted backwards, since most of the forces are braking, not driving.
So thats how it went on, and looks loads better. The old one was worn either side of the moddle and really looked weird, and if I'm honest too wide. Could have gone down to 160 I reckon.
Will post a pic of the wear pattern once I suss how to without PB.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: the coppersmith on December 23, 2017, 03:24:03 PM
I now use photo razer, it was recommended by someone on here, free download, bit fiddly until you get the swing of things, but now se it all the time, hope that helps.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on December 23, 2017, 03:51:51 PM
Thanks for that, will have a look at it, I dont think it helps that I'm using a ipad - makes cpying and pasting a bit of a lottery.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on December 24, 2017, 09:18:16 PM
No good for ipad, windows only!
Anyway, i had some thoughts about making a lit mount for my existing pushbike speedo, so why not an old piston?
So I made this:
(http://)
Aw poo, failed pic. Will need to work on it.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on December 27, 2017, 11:57:58 PM
Spent an afternoon in the workshop today. I had planned to incorporate the idiot leds into the lower edge of the piston, however, there just isn't room, especially with the perspex for the backlight. So i drew up a radiussed channel section, to fit snuggly to the lower front edge of the piston. It took absolutely ages, top, bottom, inside radius, channel for the wiring and leds, and the outside radius, so now to fettle and weld it to the piston...
Well tomorrow anyway.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on December 28, 2017, 04:42:22 PM
:) email me your photos if you have trouble with them mate & I'll reduce & post them for you.

mankymonkeymotors@gmail.com


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on December 28, 2017, 11:49:40 PM
Thanks MM, will be in touch.
Spent a couple of hours tuning a beatifully machined channel section into a blob with my tig....
I dunno, must be missing something somewhere, I can weld nice long beads on sheet metal, but try something else and all I get is oxidised blobs coming out of the ali. Pissed off, me, again....


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on January 03, 2018, 11:59:10 PM
I gave up trying to weld the idiot lights holder to the piston - it's going to be glued!
The backlight leds are giving me grief, I slotted the perspex to fit 3 of them, but while testing managed to burn two of them out!
So tonight I canniballized my old headtorch, liberated 3 leds and cut the front off them,ground them to size.
I have to say, these things are amazing, 3Volts and 8mA is all they take.
The handlebars are off, rubbed down ready to repaint (the matt black was only temporary rattle can anyway), and the bracket had allready marked the finish.
Sorry, no pics again today, but some progress at least.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on January 06, 2018, 11:35:13 PM
A little progress today, (after spending a couple of hours machining a 5 cylinder landrover manifold flat). Wired up and tested the leds - look Ok, even er indoors was impressed!  Tidied up idiot light pod, next need to fit the idiot lights, then assemble it all.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on January 07, 2018, 05:51:34 PM
Fitted the leds, now to connect up all the wires!


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on January 17, 2018, 11:37:07 PM
Hoping...
Sorry about the picture quallity, it doesn't do it justice really.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: the coppersmith on January 19, 2018, 09:47:38 AM
like that, very neat. ;)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on January 19, 2018, 11:04:40 AM
Nice :)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on March 27, 2018, 10:32:22 PM
Well I'm really pee'd off tonight, the pidometer wasn't working due to the rear bracker not being present. No worries, take it all apart, cut down and fit the bracket, put it all back together. Except that the damn thing won't pick up at anything more than 600 mm odd away from the sensor/transmitter. I tried a new battery, no difference, it looks like the transmitter is dying....
Whats the chances of finding another that'll fit in the piston mount?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: spanners on March 28, 2018, 02:42:05 AM
600mm. ???


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on March 28, 2018, 03:28:18 PM
2 feet.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 19, 2018, 10:45:57 PM
Been out and about on the trike, local vintage rally today. I've noticed I have a high speed whine, and 1st gear roughness. I'm hoping its the axle, but not really sure, so I guess the next step is to drop the oils to see if there is any glitter in there. Bugger...


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 21, 2018, 08:01:56 PM
Took the grandkids out for a spin earlier, the screaming gears had got worse. So I jacked it up and had a look. It didn't take long to notice the gearbox output shaft bearing cover was loose. One 5mm stud snapped, one nut lost and two loose. So I drained the engine oil so I could sift through it to check for bits, put the tray down on the wheeled seat, turned and walked away, and it tipped all over my workshop floor.....
Anyway, now to clean up the mess, strip the propshaft out as well as the drive gear for inspection. I hope its ok, more than anything so the rest of the engine won't have been damaged as a consequence.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on August 27, 2018, 07:32:50 PM
The output shaft and gear came out looking good, but a close look at the drive gear revealed one side of each tooth pitted and worn. So tomorrow I will buy a new output gearbox. Oh btw, the oil that didn't spill all over the garage floor didn't reveal any metal filings. Kind of begs the question - is the bevel gear wear new, or something that's been going on from day 1 - anyone been inside one of these?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on September 06, 2018, 09:13:50 PM
A replacement bevel box has been fitted, now nice and quiet. Now I can hear all the other grumbles.
Took it to Cresswell quay meet last night, cold on the way home.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on September 06, 2018, 09:52:14 PM
Just caught up with this thread. So it was definitely the bevel gear then?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on September 07, 2018, 11:28:21 PM
Well it was singing because it was loose - at least 5mm out of mesh by the time I found it. If I'd tightened it all up would it have been Ok? I dunno...
Whatever, its ok now.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on July 11, 2019, 10:16:14 PM
Quick update on this - I've been out and about quite a bit, enjoying the sunshine, but not enjoying dodging potholes and trenches in the roads....
So a decision was made to get an irs, but there aren't that many around. Eventually went all the way up to Keighley in yorkshire and did a deal on a vmax with a kasarva irs on the back. Before saying tata I had a couple of things to see to - the speedo pickup issue and the cracked front spindle, plus an mot test.
The speedo was cured by opening up the (bicycle) clock, unsoldering the receiver and connecting it via a foot and a half of two core screened cable pinched from a timing light. Worked a treat.
The spindle wasn't as easy, had to machine an m18 by 1.5 thread on the end of a 300mm machined rod. Took some practice on the thread, then had to dig out my travelling steady to make the job work.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on July 11, 2019, 10:27:22 PM
Photos? :)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on July 11, 2019, 10:39:36 PM
.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on July 11, 2019, 10:46:47 PM
Thanks Andy - for those of you interested I'm unable to post pics, but thanks to our monkeyness for helping out.
I also have a pic or two of the machining process if you think its worth putting them up Andy?


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on July 11, 2019, 11:21:54 PM
Of course :)


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on July 12, 2019, 02:58:25 PM
.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on July 12, 2019, 02:59:23 PM
.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on July 14, 2019, 10:33:48 PM
I know, I've got the mankiest lathe ever, perhaps thats fitting.
Thanks again Andy.
For anyone interested, the one from last pic is the fixed steady, needed to rough out the shaft, taking the wobble out of it (should have trued it up a bit closer first I know).
The last pic is using the travelling steady, behind the cutting tool. Worked a treat.
Since this bike is now sold, I guess this is the last post.
Once the vmax is home I'll post something up.
Cheers all.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on July 14, 2019, 11:00:30 PM
I wish I could use a lathe. Watched them many times, but never learnt the art.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: stinkey on July 19, 2019, 06:53:29 AM
I once went to evening classes just to use their big lathe so I could turn down the half shafts and wishbones on a jag rear end 😅..few years later  I purchased lots of tools from machine mart..including a lathe but I only used it a few times, sold it 2 years ago..typically now I regret it 😥


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: the coppersmith on July 19, 2019, 01:30:00 PM
yep, the one thing I miss about work, the lathe, the mill, the huge AC/DC Tig welder. I know its three things. Actually I miss the metal skip too, often found what I needed in the skip  ;D


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: Manky Monkey on July 19, 2019, 02:43:31 PM
I love the smell of machine shops -hot metal & oil.


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: stinkey on July 19, 2019, 03:15:37 PM
So does my missus ooh er? ;D


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: morrag on July 19, 2019, 05:41:21 PM
I rather think one would struggle to "true up" that shaft using a 3 Jaw chuck! :o :o....Morrag


Title: Re: Kawasaki 750 hard tail (was rear end ratios)
Post by: minimutly on July 21, 2019, 11:20:31 PM
Well now, what I probably should have typed (but I thought it, so that was ok wasn't it?), was that the "truing it up" I typed was to be using a small press and some v blocks - sorry, must be more specific, or at least type what I'm thinking.
I'm still not sure that would have allowed me to just go straight to the travelling steady though? Maybe doing it properly with a 4 jaw or between centres would have helped, but I only have a 3 and 4 jaw, no mandrel etc.
The shaft was an old metro driveshaft and had a bit of a bend in it....