I finally managed to get thumper back up and running after being in storage all winter and then maintenance delays. I did a valve adjustment, oil change, adjusted the decompression solenoid, and installed a verslavy. I took her out for a ride and it was wonderful. This was my first valve adjustment so I am kinda curious how I know if I did it right.

1. I set the valves to between 0.004 and 0.005". Really I set it to 0.004 but 0.005 was still manageable to get it in the space. Those feelers are so paper thin. I guess I'm just worried I got it too loose or too tight.

2. I adjusted the decompression solenoid and now the bike starts much easier. Before it would take a 2 or 3 seconds of holding the starter to fire up. Now it's almost instantaneous when I push the starter. I love a quick starting bike, but I just want someone to tell me that's how it should start. I guess the 2-3 sec start time could be an indicator of a needed adjustment, I just got used to it.

3. Has anyone else had issues with their license plate cracking? I snapped 1 license plate due to cracks forming at both ends and moving across due to vibration. I got a new one and after 1/2 a riding season this one is already showing signs of stress. I went to Home Depot and bought 4 rubber grommets, stacked 2 on each bolt and it sounds better. It was making a bit of a racket before. Just curious if it's a common issue.

LostArtist wrote on 04/05/10 at 17:19:26:


http://suzukisavage.com/cgi-bin/YaBB.pl?board=tech;action=display;num=1169356966

It's a device that opens one of the exhaust valves when you hit the starter to make it easier to get the engine turning so it can start.

I took a piece of Bituthane and stuck it to the back of my licence plate. Seems to be holding up well. Cracks aren't getting any bigger.

AL

For oil seepage, you mite check the 2 long engine bolts that hold the kickstand mount, and the brake pedal/foot peg assy to the frame. If these 2 bolts are not tight, it will seep oil.
cowspotter wrote on 04/06/10 at 05:14:22:

Do you guys have plastic license plates??  Mine is metal.  And I don't think I've ever read anyone talk about their plate cracking before now.....

My bike came with a cracked plate and it's common.
I guess being a big single the power pulses cause a vibration in the plate.  I added a backing plate to both bikes.

Quick start vs slow cause of decomp adjustment, a quick start is on the verge of stalling the starter.  If the adjustment gets looser, could cause the starter to stall on the compression stroke.  Not a major concern, just be aware.

Mine cracked too. Licence plate frame stopped it from continueing to spread.