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Message started by Sandy Koocanusa on 06/03/08 at 15:19:10

Title: Just another way to keep track of your bolts
Post by Sandy Koocanusa on 06/03/08 at 15:19:10

It's no great revelation, but for those who are brand new to turning a wrench, it might be worth mentioning.  Here's how I do it:  Take the picture before you start the job.  Print it on photo paper, which is heavier stock, and at least somewhat resistant to moisture and whatnot.  Then, as you remove a bolt, just make a cut in the paper and poke the bolt through the hole.  That way, when you go to put it all back together, there's no confusion about where the bolt with the washer, or the longer bolt, or whatever, goes.

http://a660.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/36/l_cd1150ee678a62d74a29614a94196333.jpg

Drawing a diagram on cardboard works just as well, but I can never find a piece of cardboard when I need it.  I know where the printer paper is, though.  Plus, they fit in a file folder for the next time I have to remove the same part.

Incidentally, here's what was behind that cover with all the bolts in it.  I finally got the nerve to open it.  It wasn't near as painful as I thought it would be.  

http://a665.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/75/l_c5ab44af5d4d1b4d951567cabb7413f8.jpg

http://a191.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/8/l_27131a244505c91805a96dd3621e1a16.jpg

The guys and gals around here that know what they're doing sure make it easier.  I would have spent hundreds on this bike that I didn't have to if not for them.  My thanks to each and every one of you who spend your time writing this stuff up for the benefit of those of us who wouldn't dare try it otherwise.

Title: Re: Just another way to keep track of your bolts
Post by verslagen1 on 06/03/08 at 15:25:19

HOOOWEEE, it was time to open 'er up.
A little longer and you'd be cleaning that up with a shovel.

Title: Re: Just another way to keep track of your bolts
Post by Sandy Koocanusa on 06/03/08 at 15:55:23

Actually, once again I tried it on the parts bike first.  Still not sure when I'm going to find out what caused the nasty "thump" that put it up for sale.

At least now, when I open mine up, I can do it with a small measure of confidence in myself.  I just don't know if I really need to yet.  5000 miles or so on the clock.  At least the last 1500 with synthetic oil.  I have reason to believe it was well maintained before I got it, as well.  What do you think?

Title: Re: Just another way to keep track of your bolts
Post by Jay on 06/03/08 at 18:51:16

Sandy Koocanusa
I second your thanks to the group. Without their support and dedication, there are a number of us who would be too intimidated to try some of the things we do to these bikes.
And thank you Sandy Koocanusa, for posting another great tip for keeping all the parts straight.

Thanks guys and gals, for making this the best site on the web.
Ride safe,
Jay

Title: Re: Just another way to keep track of your bolts
Post by Trippah on 06/03/08 at 19:49:58

Pretty neat having a dog "stand in" for the overhead cam..runs well on water no doubt. :)

Title: Re: Just another way to keep track of your bolts
Post by Sandy Koocanusa on 06/03/08 at 19:54:16

Actually, he's part of the reason for the picture with the bolts in it.  He likes to wander through at random and scatter my stuff all over the place.  A good pal, but a lousy assistant. :)

His name is Mac.  His brother was Roni.  It fits, 'cause he's got the brains of a noodle.

Title: Re: Just another way to keep track of your bolts
Post by Trippah on 06/03/08 at 20:00:58

Ronnie - Mack  Ronnie - Mack Rrmm Rrmmm..yes, those names will definately do just fine.  My Newf was a great assistant, she'd put so much saliva on a tool it would slip out of my hand.. :)

Title: Re: Just another way to keep track of your bolts
Post by verslagen1 on 06/03/08 at 20:20:58


0B0D0C0E13150E0F610 wrote:
Actually, once again I tried it on the parts bike first.  Still not sure when I'm going to find out what caused the nasty "thump" that put it up for sale.

At least now, when I open mine up, I can do it with a small measure of confidence in myself.  I just don't know if I really need to yet.  5000 miles or so on the clock.  At least the last 1500 with synthetic oil.  I have reason to believe it was well maintained before I got it, as well.  What do you think?

Most likely it was starting to make noise, dealer said you gotta option sell it or repair it.

does it run?

I'd say you got till 10k before you should open it up.  At 8k listen intently from then on.

Title: Re: Just another way to keep track of your bolts
Post by Sandy Koocanusa on 06/03/08 at 21:10:08

Yeah, it made a noise like "KAHWHUMP!!!" and stopped dead.  The kid ran it out of oil.  The dealer started to open it up and then told them it would cost more to fix than it was worth, so they sold it to me for $150.  I'm using it as a rehearsal tool.  If something needs doing on my bike that I'm not sure about, I tear into this one to see what I'm getting into first.  It's been a good source of spares, as well.  I've already gotten my $150 out of it, I think.

Also, if you are still compiling data on tensioners, this one has about 19,000 miles on it.  No idea how it was ridden or what oil was put in it, when they bothered to put in any at all.

Title: Re: Just another way to keep track of your bolts
Post by verslagen1 on 06/03/08 at 22:06:42

When you're threw with it, throw in a basket and send it to me.

Title: Re: Just another way to keep track of your bolts
Post by mpescatori on 06/04/08 at 00:14:12


3A3C3D3F22243F3E500 wrote:
Yeah, it made a noise like "KAHWHUMP!!!" and stopped dead.  The kid ran it out of oil.  
...  
No idea how it was ridden or what oil was put in it, when they bothered to put in any at all.


That's the lousy thing about reading the oil level through that itsy bitsy window thingie...

The engineers at Suzuki might as well have put a pair of dice with the instructions "try your luck"   :-?

I considered drilling and tapping a hole for a dipstick but the clutch is in the way   :P

I am actually beginnng to think I may be running dry... so I'll just try my hand at changing the oil to see exactly how much I was riding on...

Now... what was that theory about "motor oil for diesels" being a better "wet clutch bike oil" than "motor oil for gas engines" ?

::)

Title: Re: Just another way to keep track of your bolts
Post by Savage_Rob on 06/04/08 at 06:35:35

I use Savage Greg's idea and scan the diagram from the manual, print it, and tape it to the bottom of a cardboard box.  The photo could be used just as easily though.  Good idea!

Title: Re: Just another way to keep track of your bolts
Post by T Mack 1 on 06/04/08 at 10:36:43

Piece of cardboard (Miller Lite box :)  ) and a sharpie marker.  Definitely wouldn't get an A in art class for my rendition of a sidecase or head cover, but it works....

Title: Re: Just another way to keep track of your bolts
Post by Sandy Koocanusa on 06/04/08 at 10:44:14


6A13735F5D550F3E0 wrote:
Piece of cardboard (Miller Lite box :)  ) and a sharpie marker.....


By the time I got the box, emptied, I'd be unable to get the cap off the sharpie, and wouldn't care where the bolts ended up. ;D

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